ODM-UDA MoU Marks Turning Point in Kenyan Politics, ODM Declares Support for President Ruto

In a dramatic and unexpected political turn, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has formally declared its support for President William Ruto's leadership, marking what observers are calling a “Handshake 2.0.” The announcement follows a high-level meeting of ODM’s Central Committee chaired by Party Leader Raila Odinga, culminating in a set of seven resolutions aimed at strengthening ny, promoting inclusive governance, and advancing devolution.

Speaking at Orange House, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna called the move a “strategic realignment” that reflects the party’s commitment to putting Kenya first. “This is not a surrender. This is a mature, calculated decision to foster peace, stability, and economic development. The country must come first,” Sifuna emphasized.

Seven-Point Roadmap to National Unity

At the heart of the announcement is a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ODM and President Ruto’s UDA Party, which will be overseen by a joint technical committee tasked with implementing collaborative policy and legislative reforms.

1. Raila-Ruto Cooperation Endorsed
ODM endorsed Raila Odinga’s decision to work with President Ruto, a move likened to the historic 2018 handshake with then-President Uhuru Kenyatta. Party insiders say the partnership is meant to stabilize the political environment and unlock bipartisan solutions to pressing national challenges.

2. Technical Committee to Drive Implementation
The ODM-UDA MoU will be anchored by a technical team that will spearhead collaboration on legislative agendas, policy frameworks, and national development plans.

3. Push for Ksh450 Billion to Counties
Reinforcing its devolution-first stance, ODM announced its full backing of an increase in county funding to at least Ksh450 billion, echoing recommendations by the Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA).

4. Full Transfer of Devolved Functions
ODM called for the unbundling of all constitutionally devolved functions and their corresponding resources, particularly in key sectors like health, agriculture, and infrastructure.

5. Youth-Centered Intergenerational Dialogue
In alignment with Ruto’s youth initiatives, ODM will support a national dialogue focused on youth empowerment, education, employment, and innovation, citing the need to involve Kenya’s largest demographic in governance.

6. Grassroots Elections & 20-Year Anniversary
To rejuvenate its political machinery, ODM will hold nationwide grassroots elections as part of its "ODM at 20" celebrations, signaling a renewal of internal democracy and party strength.

7. Loyalty to the People, Not Power
ODM affirmed its unwavering loyalty to the Kenyan people, vowing to support government reforms while maintaining its watchdog role to ensure transparency and accountability.

Political Maturity or Political Calculus?

The development has sparked both optimism and skepticism across the political spectrum. Supporters see it as a long-overdue shift towards collaborative governance, while critics warn of possible political co-optation ahead of 2027.

However, Secretary-General Sifuna dismissed the naysayers: “This is about Kenya. The politics of division are behind us. It is time to build, to empower, and to lead together.”

A New Dawn?

The announcement marks a watershed moment in Kenya’s evolving political landscape. As ODM and UDA prepare to work hand-in-hand, attention now shifts to the practical outcomes of this alliance.

Kenyans, weary of political drama and campaign rhetoric, are watching—this time not with suspicion, but with a cautious hope.