Coalitions Key to Political Stability, Says Lusaka

Bungoma Governor and Western Region President William Ruto re-election coordinator Kenneth Lusaka has renewed calls for strong pre-election coalitions, saying they are vital for inclusive governance and long-term political stability in Kenya.

Speaking during an ODM delegates’ meeting in Kakamega, Lusaka praised the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) for initiating talks with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), both within the framework of the broad-based government and ahead of the next general election.

Lusaka said coalition-building has always been central to Kenya’s democratic evolution, noting that ODM’s founding leader Raila Odinga consistently championed dialogue and political cooperation.

“Even the father of this party, Raila Odinga, always believed in and championed coalitions. You are therefore on the right track and living in his true spirit,” Lusaka said.

The Bungoma governor urged ODM party leader Oburu Odinga to ignore critics opposed to dialogue, arguing that structured negotiations strengthen democracy, enhance national cohesion and reduce political tensions.

“ODM is a major stakeholder in this country’s political landscape and should never miss a seat at the negotiation table,” Lusaka said. “The party has fought hard for democracy in Kenya, and the time has come for it to join hands with others to form government and deliver for the people.”

He emphasized that cooperation, rather than confrontation, offers Kenya a pathway to stability, development and effective service delivery. According to Lusaka, early political negotiations help avert post-election disputes that have historically destabilized the country.

Lusaka also revealed that governors from the Western region have agreed to work together politically with the aim of supporting President William Ruto’s re-election in the next polls. He said a united Western voting bloc would strengthen the region’s bargaining power at the national level and accelerate development.

“Our farmers, hospitals and infrastructure will not benefit from political isolation,” he said. “Collaboration and unity are the surest routes to progress.”

His remarks come amid intensified political realignments as parties position themselves for the next general election, with coalition politics increasingly emerging as a defining feature of Kenya’s multiparty democracy.