ODM leaders have stepped up pressure on President William Ruto as talks about possible support in the 2027 elections continue. Suna East MP Junet Mohammed, the National Assembly Minority Whip, said the party expects more cabinet slots and other key roles if Ruto wants ODM votes.
Junet made the remarks on December 21, 2025, during a condolence visit for the late former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo. He told attendees that Ruto already gave ODM several positions under the broad-based government deal, even without votes in 2022. But those are not enough. “Ruto kama anataka kura yetu ya ODM, lazima atuambie anaongeza viti ngapi,” Junet said. He added that ODM is not someone’s wife to support without conditions.
Other ODM figures share similar views. Nairobi Senator and party Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna hit back at claims the party has been sold. He compared selling ODM to selling Uhuru Park, calling it public land that belongs to the people.
Sifuna also criticised Ruto for talking about turning Kenya into Singapore while ordinary folks struggle. “Ruto anatuambia mambo ya Singapore wakati anafikiria tumbo yake mwenyewe na watu wa kwao wakati wananchi wanabaki njaa,” he said.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi questioned Ruto’s focus on big visions when basic issues remain. “Vile uchaguzi unakaribia wanaanza mambo ya Singapore; utakuwa na Singapore namna gani kama bado mama mboga na hustler wanaumia!” Osotsi said. He pointed to the pain felt by street vendors and small traders.
The broad-based arrangement started after protests earlier in 2025. It brought ODM members like Hassan Joho, John Mbadi, Opiyo Wandayi, and Wycliffe Oparanya into the cabinet. Ruto and the late Raila Odinga signed a deal for cooperation. Since Raila’s passing, ODM has navigated the partnership carefully.
Some ODM voices push for full backing of Ruto. Others want conditions met first. Junet dismissed ideas of unconditional support. He said the party brings big numbers and deserves more.
Ruto has urged ODM to stay strong for future talks. At recent events, he spoke of forming a government together if parties organise well.
These statements show negotiations underway. ODM leaders want clear gains, like extra posts or even the deputy president slot. Rumours float, but no firm deals yet.
Politics in Kenya often involves such bargaining as elections near. Parties weigh cooperation against independence. ODM’s base in Nyanza and other areas watches closely.
The comments spread on social media and news sites. People debate if demands are fair or too much. For now, it highlights tensions and expectations in the current setup.
As dates approach, more discussions are likely. Leaders balance current roles with future plans. Voters wait to see outcomes.
