The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and their allies in the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) are preparing for an impactful three-day retreat in Naivasha, Nakuru County.
This retreat is scheduled to commence on Sunday, August 10, 2026, as both parties collaborate to develop a strategic plan for the upcoming 2027 general elections.
During this crucial meeting, the partners will address pressing issues and establish a team to facilitate coalition discussions ahead of the elections. The gathering will include governors, deputy governors, Members of Parliament, Senators, Cabinet Secretaries, and Speakers of Parliament, ensuring a comprehensive representation.
Agenda Overview
Kimani Ichung’wah, the Majority Leader in the National Assembly, has confirmed the meeting details and the agenda.
“We will check in on Sunday evening, followed by meetings that night, with the main plenary set for Monday,” Ichung’wah explained. “Our focus is to chart a clear path for the upcoming year as we approach the general elections. We will actively engage our members to identify those interested in participating and representing our constituents.”
The two party leaders have emphasized the importance of forming a negotiation team to navigate the upcoming discussions, and Ichung’wah refrained from revealing specific topics prior to the weekend meeting.
ODM’s Key Demands
Senator Stewart Madzayo, the Senate Minority Leader from Kilifi, articulated ODM’s key demands for the retreat.
“We are eager to determine our collaborative path forward. It’s essential that the position of Deputy President is filled by someone from the ODM party if we are to unite effectively,” Madzayo asserted.
The contentious issue of the running mate will be a focal point of the discussions. In addition to seeking the Deputy President position, ODM is advocating for an equitable 50/50 distribution of government roles, contingent upon their support for Ruto’s presidential campaign.
“The leadership must reflect our broad-based coalition. The President and Deputy President should not come from the same party, which makes it imperative for the Deputy President role to be assigned to the ODM party,” he emphasized.
Beyond the Deputy President position, the agenda will also encompass the implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, compensation for protest victims, and President William Ruto’s Beyond Vision 2030 initiative.
This retreat promises to be a pivotal moment in shaping the future of the coalition and setting the stage for the forthcoming elections.
