Ruto, Oburu form joint UDA-ODM committee to quell tensions
President William Ruto earlier today chaired a high-level consultative meeting at State House, Nairobi, alongside Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Oginga, culminating in the formation of a joint management committee aimed at easing tensions and strengthening cooperation between the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and ODM.
According to a joint statement released after the meeting, the leaders agreed to establish a Broad-Based Management Committee comprising the party leaders, selected Cabinet ministers, and the Majority and Minority leaders in Parliament.
The committee will be tasked with coordinating and synchronising both the legislative and executive agenda of government to enhance coherence, efficiency, and service delivery.
The meeting, held today, April 23, 026 2comes amid recent signs of strain between the two parties, particularly over contentious issues such as electoral zoning and nominations.
ODM had recently demanded greater respect from its coalition partner, highlighting internal friction within the emerging Broad-Based Government (BBG) framework.
In a key resolution, UDA chairperson and Embu county Governor Cecily Mbarire and ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga who also doubles as the Homa Bay county governor were mandated to spearhead structured and regular consultations across party organs to sustain dialogue and manage emerging disputes.
While zoning remains a divisive issue—with some ODM officials advocating for agreements not to field candidates against each other in certain strongholds—the matter was shelved during the meeting, with leaders indicating it was premature for such deliberations.
However, insiders suggest the newly formed committee will eventually handle broader coalition-building concerns, including electoral strategy ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Both Ruto and Oburu reiterated their commitment to unity, constructive engagement, and a shared national vision for inclusive governance and development.
The State House noted that the talks focused on strengthening collaboration and identifying areas of mutual interest between the two political outfits.
Despite earlier speculation that coalition talks had stalled, Oburu dismissed the claims, clarifying that formal negotiations had not yet begun.
He emphasised that no process had been halted, as no official negotiating team had been constituted.
Mbarire echoed the sentiment, indicating that further cross-party consultations are expected in the coming days.
She noted that emerging issues would be addressed through party structures, with a final position to be communicated once consensus is reached.
