Nyamira Senator Okong’o Omogeni has declared that he would promptly end any political collaboration between the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) if he held leadership of the party.
In an interview with a local TV station on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, Omogeni expressed skepticism about the long-term advantages of ODM’s current partnership with the ruling party, asserting that it undermines the opposition’s capacity to compete effectively.
“If I were the party leader of ODM, I would swiftly withdraw from this so-called alliance with UDA,” he stated.
He emphasized that this partnership has obscured political identities and diminished ODM’s stature as an independent political entity.
Focus on Competitive Politics
Omogeni urged ODM leaders to concentrate on revitalizing the party into a formidable, competitive political force capable of standing independently.
He specifically highlighted senior ODM members, such as Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, suggesting that if he were in Oburu Odinga’s position, he would advise Joho to resign in order to fully engage in grassroots politics.
“I see individuals like Joho actively involved in politics; I would encourage him to resign and return to the field, seeking political power the right way by strengthening ODM, allowing for genuine competition,” he added.
Critique of ODM’s Strategy
Omogeni also criticized what he perceives as a shift in ODM’s political strategy from aspiring for leadership to merely seeking recognition within a broader political context.
He argued that a robust party should not rely on external alliances for respect or influence.
“By doing so, you will earn respect even from UDA. It began with ODM demanding nothing less than a deputy president position; now they are asking for respect. This is not the way to lead a strong party like ODM,” he remarked.
Concerns Over Loss of ODM Strongholds
The lawmaker raised alarms over a noticeable political shift in Luo Nyanza, cautioning that ODM risks losing its traditional strongholds to UDA if current trends persist.
He stated that the evolving collaborations and political realignments among parties have inadvertently opened doors for UDA to extend its influence in regions historically regarded as ODM’s core support base.
Omogeni contended that ODM has strategically misjudged its political engagement with UDA, warning that the partnership has primarily benefited its rival.
He noted that this political “marriage” has helped normalize UDA’s presence in Luo Nyanza, facilitating its acceptance among aspiring leaders and voters.
“I believe ODM has been set up. We have ventured too far into a trap, as this alliance has popularized UDA in Luo Nyanza to the point where candidates now feel they can run in a ward, constituency, or county using UDA as their political platform,” Omogeni stated.
