Suna East Member of Parliament Junet Mohamed has confidently defended the meetings of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) reportedly taking place at State House. He emphasized that ODM is an integral part of the broad-based government and should not be categorized solely as an opposition party.
During his address in Kajiado County on Saturday, July 18, 2026, he challenged critics, asking where they expected ODM to conduct its high-level meetings. “I heard some say that ODM meetings are now held at State House. Where else would you like us to meet? ODM is part of a broad-based government. We are not the same party as before; we are now a ruling party,” Junet stated.
Speaking at the Thanksgiving ceremony for ODM Youth League President Johnmark Ketorah in Kiloh, Junet’s comments reflect the perspective of senior ODM leaders regarding the party’s role in President William Ruto’s administration. Following months of political tension and protests, ODM joined the broad-based government, leading to several senior members being appointed to the Cabinet.
While this cooperation has faced criticism from some who believe ODM has neglected its accountability role, Junet firmly rejected such claims. He presented ODM’s access to State House as a sign of the party’s growing influence. He also dismissed the idea of returning to street demonstrations, asserting, “We are no longer the people who shout in the streets. We have left that behind. Our people have suffered enough; we cannot allow further loss.”
Junet articulated that ODM will pursue its political goals through negotiation and active participation in government. His statements indicate a strategic redefinition of the party as it approaches the 2027 General Election. ODM is transitioning from merely an opposition movement to a partner in governance.
Moreover, Junet dismissed the notion of ODM exiting the broad-based government before the next election. “I see no signs of ODM leaving this broad-based arrangement nor distancing itself from William Ruto. Why would we abandon the government only to return to opposition and then campaign for power in 2027? That doesn’t make sense,” he argued.
His steadfast stance places him among ODM leaders advocating for ongoing collaboration with Ruto and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). This arrangement remains a topic of significant debate within ODM, where one faction views it as a chance to influence government policy and foster development, while another worries that such cooperation might dilute ODM’s identity.
Regardless of differing opinions, Junet’s message is clear: ODM will continue to engage in high-level discussions within the government and has no plans to revert to opposition politics anytime soon.
