ODM split deepens as zoning row sparks UDA fallout
A looming fallout between the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is threatening to derail fragile political rapprochement efforts ahead of the 2027 General Election, amid an escalating standoff over zoning arrangements.
The dispute has exposed sharp divisions within ODM itself, with hardline positions from sections of the party leadership—particularly chairperson Gladys Wanga—complicating attempts to strike a compromise with UDA. Insiders warn the standoff could trigger a broader political fallout if not resolved.
Zoning, a strategy where coalition partners agree on regions each party should field candidates, has emerged as the key sticking point.
ODM leaders backing the proposal insist it is necessary to safeguard the party’s traditional strongholds, maintaining that any negotiations must be conducted on equal footing.
A section of ODM lawmakers has supported the stance, warning against UDA fielding candidates in perceived ODM bastions.
Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi was categorical: “There is no negotiation when it comes to zoning… all those strongholds are reserved for ODM.”
However, UDA has firmly rejected zoning demands, insisting on its constitutional right to field candidates nationwide.
Secretary General Hassan Omar dismissed ODM’s claims over regional dominance, stating: “The Coast region belongs to its residents… allow us to compete fairly.”
Even as the standoff intensifies, a dissenting faction within ODM has emerged, warning that zoning could backfire politically.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo, alongside MPs Elisha Odhiambo, Jared Okello and Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, cautioned that the arrangement risks alienating both leaders and voters.
“When we start pushing an agenda strongly of zoning, it means that we are putting our personal interests ahead of those of our constituents,” said Odhiambo.
The lawmakers argued that enforcing zoning would undermine multiparty democracy and weaken electoral competitiveness.
They called for open contests, insisting leaders should be ready to face challengers if they have delivered on their mandates.
“If I have worked for my constituency, I should not fear meeting any opponent,” Odhiambo added, clarifying she was speaking in her personal capacity.
The MPs maintained that ODM remains strong enough to compete nationwide without formal zoning agreements.
“ODM is a strong and popular party which has always managed to successfully front candidates across the country without any formal form of zoning,” they said.
They urged the party leadership to prioritise accountability to voters over political arrangements, warning that the zoning push could fracture emerging alliances ahead of 2027.
“We need to listen to the public and show what we have done for them. Leadership should not be about avoiding competition,” Odhiambo said.
