Opposition leader Raila Odinga has clarified that neither the ODM Party nor the Azimio la Umoja Coalition has entered into any coalition agreement with President William Ruto’s UDA Party. This statement comes in response to President Ruto’s recent nomination of four ODM members to his cabinet, which sparked speculation about a potential alliance.
Response to Cabinet Nominations
In a press statement released on Thursday, July 25, 2024, Odinga addressed the situation, stating that the ODM Party had expected clear terms of engagement on issues they had previously raised, but no formal agreement had been established. He emphasized that the announcement made by President Ruto did not signify a coalition between the parties.
Odinga remarked, “We had anticipated the crafting of clear terms of engagement based on issues we raised in our various communiques. While we extend our best wishes to the nominees and trust that they will contribute positively to national development, we continue to advocate for a national engagement under the conditions we have previously outlined.”
Demands and Advocacy
Odinga reiterated the demands that ODM had put forth, including compensation for the families of victims of extrajudicial executions and those injured by state actions since the previous year. He also called for the release of all individuals in custody and the termination of cases related to protests, along with the prosecution of law enforcement officers involved in the unlawful use of force against protestors.
Commitment to Principles
The opposition leader reaffirmed ODM’s commitment to its core principles of democracy, good governance, and social justice. He stressed that these values would continue to guide the party’s actions and decisions, as they work towards the betterment of the nation. Odinga urged all stakeholders to remain dedicated to the ideals of unity and progress for the prosperity of all Kenyans.
ODM Leaders Nominated for Cabinet Positions
In a national address on Wednesday, President Ruto announced the nomination of several ODM leaders for key cabinet positions. John Mbadi, the ODM chairman, was nominated for the Ministry of National Treasury and Economic Planning. James Opiyo Wandayi, the National Assembly Minority Leader and ODM Secretary of Political Affairs, was nominated for the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum.
Additionally, Hassan Joho, the ODM Deputy Party Leader and former Governor of Mombasa County, was nominated for the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs. Wycliffe Oparanya, former Governor of Kakamega County, was nominated to lead the Ministry of Co-operatives and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development.
