This is not a claim born of entitlement. It is a
conclusion drawn from history, political reality and a forward-looking vision
for Kenya.
First, history teaches us that
ODM is not merely a political party; it is the institutional expression of
Kenya’s long struggle for democratic reform.
The party traces its origins to
the 2005 constitutional referendum, where a broad-based citizen movement
rejected an over-centralised Executive and
demanded a more accountable system of governance.
That moment was not just
political, it was foundational. ODM emerged as a vehicle for reform, rooted in
the fight against authoritarianism and the pursuit of a more equitable
state.
It is therefore historically
inconsistent, and politically dangerous, to relegate such a movement to the
margins of executive power. A party born out of the demand to restructure power
cannot now be excluded from how that power is ultimately exercised.
Second, Kenya’s own experience
demonstrates that stability is best achieved through inclusive governance. The
events following the 2007 election are a sobering reminder.
The disputed
outcome led to a national crisis, resolved only through a negotiated power-sharing
agreement that created the position of Prime Minister under Raila Odinga. That
arrangement, imperfect as it was, restored calm, stabilised the economy, and
laid the groundwork for the transformative 2010 Constitution.
The lesson is clear: where
significant political constituencies are excluded, instability follows; where
they are incorporated, the nation steadies itself.
ODM today remains one of the most
deeply rooted political formations in Kenya, with structures extending to the
grassroots across all 47 counties. Its electoral strength, organisational
depth and ideological clarity make it a central pillar of Kenya’s democratic
architecture.
To attempt to govern Kenya without integrating ODM at the highest
level of executive authority would be to ignore the lived political reality of
millions of citizens.
Third, the future of Kenya
demands a new model of governance, one that is collaborative rather than
exclusionary. The presidency of the future cannot be a
winner-takes-all institution. It must evolve into a platform for shared
leadership, reflecting the diversity and complexity of our nation.
This is not merely about ODM. It
is about redefining governance in Kenya. A presidency that meaningfully
incorporates the Orange party would signal a shift
toward coalition-based stability, policy continuity and national cohesion.
It
would allow for the integration of ideas, the balancing of interests and the
reduction of adversarial politics that too often paralyses progress.
Moreover, ODM’s policy orientation
centred on social democracy, equity and inclusive development offers a
necessary counterbalance in shaping national priorities.
The challenges we face
today, from youth unemployment to regional inequality, require precisely the
kind of people-centered governance that ODM has consistently championed.
Fourth, there is a generational
responsibility at play. The passing of of our founding
party leader Raila marked
the end of a defining chapter in Kenya’s political history.
He was, by all
accounts, a towering figure in the struggle for democracy and good governance.
But his legacy cannot be reduced to memory. His memory must be translated into
institutional relevance.
That responsibility now falls to
the current leadership of ODM under Oburu Oginga. We must ensure that the
ideals for which generations fought are not diluted.
Securing the party’s place within the presidency is not about power for
its own sake; it is about safeguarding a legacy of reform and ensuring its
continuity in shaping Kenya’s future.
Finally, on the question of
leadership, I am clear in my personal conviction. I believe that Hassan Ali
Joho represents the kind of bold, transformative leadership that ODM, and
indeed Kenya, requires in this next phase.
His experience, his clarity of
thought and his ability to connect with both grassroots and national
constituencies make him a compelling candidate for the highest office in the
land.
This is, of course, a matter for
the party to decide. But leadership is not only about consensus, it is also
about persuasion. I will actively engage my colleagues within ODM to make the
case for his candidacy, grounded not in sentiment, but in strategic assessment
of what the moment demands.
In conclusion, ODM’s place in
the presidency is not negotiable, it is necessary. Necessary for
stability. Necessary for continuity. Necessary for the realisation of a truly
inclusive Kenyan state.
As we approach 2027, we must rise
above the politics of exclusion and embrace a model of governance that
reflects who we are as a people: diverse, dynamic, and united in our
aspirations.
The Orange party has earned its place
in that future not at the edges of power, but at its very centre.
The writer is the ODM deputy leader and governor of Mombasa
