The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has formally declared its support for the Kenya Kwanza administration, pledging to collaborate with President William Ruto in advancing the national agenda. The announcement follows a resolution passed by the party’s Central Committee, chaired by ODM leader Raila Odinga, affirming the party’s commitment to national stability and addressing citizens’ concerns through constitutional and democratic processes.

In a statement delivered by ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, the party emphasized the need to actualize the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in 2023. To facilitate this, ODM will form a 10-member technical committee to work alongside UDA counterparts in driving implementation.

Sifuna cited delays in the operationalization of the MoU, especially around the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, attributing the stagnation to the absence of a joint technical committee. He underscored the importance of addressing critical national issues, including youth empowerment, peaceful assembly, the rule of law, and anti-corruption measures.

On matters of devolution, ODM welcomed the government’s recent allocation of Ksh.415 billion to counties but reiterated its call for an increase to at least Ksh.450 billion. The party also pushed for full implementation of devolved functions and the constitutional release of funds to counties.

In addition, ODM expressed support for a proposed national inter-generational conference focusing on youth affairs and confirmed its commitment to upcoming grassroots elections and the celebration of its 20th anniversary as part of its broader reorganisation strategy.

Despite internal divisions and recent criticism directed at Sifuna for his earlier statements on the party’s stance, the Central Committee reaffirmed a united front. “The committee brokered an unbreakable unity of purpose… We are committed to the agenda of national transformation and stability,” Sifuna stated.

This significant development marks a shift in ODM’s political posture, potentially reshaping Kenya’s governance and party alliances in the coming months.