ODM Members Defect To UDA In Preparation For 2027 Polls
Interim United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Hassan Omar welcomed several Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) defectors from Marsabit County on Tuesday, as the ruling party seeks to strengthen its position ahead of the 2027 election.
The leaders, primarily from the minority Burji community, announced their political decision following consultative talks with UDA Party Secretary General Omar at the UDA headquarters in Nairobi.
The leaders pledged their loyalty to President William Ruto, promising to support his initiatives across the country.
While welcoming the new leaders, Omar reiterated the political organization’s goal of developing a national outlook that includes welcoming and giving voice to minority groups.
A section of ODM leaders from Marsabit county have decamped to join the UDA Party.
— United Democratic Alliance, UDA. (@UDAKenya) September 10, 2024
The leaders, drawn mainly from the minority Burji community announced their political decision after holding consultative talks with UDA Party Secretary General Hassan Omar at the UDA headquarters… pic.twitter.com/7xdka1XLqw
During the meeting, the former Mombasa Senator announced the formation of a department within the party to oversee the interests of various demographics across the country.
Omar also stated that UDA and the government are accelerating efforts to improve the potential of ASAL regions in the country.
In accordance with the UDA manifesto, Omar mentions agriculture, commerce, and economic growth as key areas.
The recent defections occurred weeks after President William Ruto’s development tour of the Nyanza region.
During the tour, the Head of State was greeted by ODM veterans such as Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi and his energy counterpart Opiyo Wandayi.
President Ruto is preparing for a tough election in 2027, which has forced him to consider all options, with every vote expected to count in what is expected to be Kenya’s most difficult election.
The Head of State has almost secured ODM leader Raila Odinga’s support after officially launching the latter’s African Union Commission (AUC) bid at the State House in Nairobi.
The decision to appoint Hassan Ali Joho, a Coast politician, as Mining Cabinet Secretary is expected to help President Ruto expand his support base on the Coast.
The focus has now shifted to other areas of the country.
ODM Members Defect To UDA In Preparation For 2027 Polls
