The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has intensified its push to secure the Deputy President’s position in the broad-based government ahead of the 2027 General Election, with party leaders publicly endorsing Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya as President Ruto’s preferred running mate.
Speaking during a political rally in Malava, Kakamega County, on Sunday, July 26, ODM leaders argued that the party’s cooperation with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) should translate into an equal share of government, including the country’s second-highest office.
Led by ODM Acting Secretary General Catherine Omanyo, the leaders maintained that the party’s continued support for President Ruto’s re-election bid would depend on negotiations that guarantee ODM the DP’s slot.
Suna East MP and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed said the political arrangement between ODM and UDA should see UDA retain the presidency while ODM nominates the DP.
“UDA should produce the president while ODM will produce the DP, and we will present Wycliffe Oparanya,” Junet said during the Malava rally.
Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka Miradi echoed the sentiments, describing Oparanya as the party’s preferred candidate for the position.
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“As ODM, we have agreed that President Ruto is our candidate in the 2027 General Election. But we have also said that the DP must come from ODM, and the only person qualified for that position is Oparanya,” Aseka said.
The leaders argued that Oparanya is well-positioned to help consolidate support for President Ruto in Western Kenya, citing his longstanding political experience, close association with former PM Raila Odinga, and influence across the region.
Kindiki Insists He Will Remain Ruto’s Running Mate
ODM’s renewed demand comes despite DP Kithure Kindiki’s recent declaration that he will remain President Ruto’s running mate in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking in Meru on Saturday, Kindiki dismissed speculation over his position, insisting that his role in government is secure and cannot be negotiated away.
Using a metaphor, the DP said the Mt. Kenya region could not build, complete, and furnish a house only to abandon it for the forest, emphasizing that he remains firmly in government and urging the region to back President Ruto’s re-election.
Fresh Political Contest
The competing positions highlight emerging political tensions within the broad-based government as parties begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.
While ODM leaders insist that the DP should be allocated to the Orange party if UDA fields the presidential candidate, Kindiki has maintained that he remains the rightful running mate.
Meanwhile, a recent Infotrak survey ranked Kindiki as the most preferred running mate for President Ruto, receiving 34% support among respondents.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga was ranked second with 11%, while ODM leader Oburu Odinga came third with 5%.
