By Joshua Otieno | April 23, 2026
NAIROBI, KENYA — The ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have formalized a new power-sharing framework in a major step aimed at stabilizing the Kenya Kwanza administration’s “Broad-based Government.”
The agreement was reached during a high-level consultative meeting at State House Nairobi, co-chaired by President William Ruto and Oburu Oginga, who represented ODM leadership. The talks focused on easing internal tensions and aligning political strategy ahead of the 2027 General Election.
At the center of the agreement is the formation of a Broad-Based Management Committee, a joint structure bringing together party chairpersons, Cabinet members, and parliamentary leadership from both sides. The committee is tasked with coordinating legislative priorities and executive programs to ensure smoother governance.
A key outcome of the deal is a commitment to end recent divisions in Parliament, with both parties agreeing to present a unified front on major government policies. These include flagship initiatives such as the Social Health Authority (SHA) and the Affordable Housing Programme, which have previously faced resistance within sections of the coalition.
“We have resolved to move forward with a unity of purpose,” read a joint statement issued after the meeting. “This committee will serve as the bridge to ensure that our shared vision for national development is translated into seamless legislative action.”
Beyond governance, the agreement carries significant political implications. Both UDA and ODM confirmed they will begin structured consultations within their respective party organs to explore the formation of a possible “Coalition of Equals” ahead of 2027.
However, insiders indicate that sensitive issues particularly electoral zoning, where parties avoid fielding candidates against each other in certain regions remain unresolved and could prove contentious, especially within ODM’s grassroots base.
The pact also signals a widening rift within the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Coalition, as ODM’s deepening cooperation with UDA effectively repositions it within government ranks, leaving the opposition increasingly fragmented.
The newly formed committee is expected to convene its inaugural meeting next week, where it will outline the operational framework and begin shaping a joint political strategy heading into the next election cycle.
