Ichung’wah: UDA-ODM talks go beyond 10-Point agenda as ruling coalition eyes 2027

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has revealed that ongoing engagements between the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition and the ODM extend beyond the recently unveiled 10-point agenda, expressing confidence that the talks could lay the foundation for the formation of the next government.

Ichung’wah said the discussions between the two sides are broader, more strategic and aimed at building an inclusive political arrangement that brings together all Kenyans ahead of the 2027 General Election.

“Our engagements with our colleagues and brothers in ODM go beyond the 10-point agenda,” Ichung’wah said Wednesday during a press conference in Nairobi.

He stated: “It is our intent to be an all-inclusive coalition that brings everybody and all Kenyans on board.”

The Kikuyu MP noted that while the 10-point agenda remains a key framework for cooperation, the talks have expanded into negotiations on long-term political collaboration, including how the parties could work together into the next electoral cycle.

He disclosed that President William Ruto has been mandated to spearhead negotiations with ODM, not only on policy alignment but also on a possible political arrangement heading into the 2027 elections.

“We therefore look forward to working with ODM even into the next elections next year,” Ichung’wah said.

“The engagements and negotiations we have mandated the President to lead go beyond the 10-point agenda into an arrangement on how we get into the 2027 elections, forming the government that we are very confident about.”

Ichung’wah attributed this confidence to what he described as a clear vision and agenda by the ruling coalition, saying Kenya Kwanza is focused on delivering tangible results for citizens.

“We have a clear vision and a clear agenda on what we want to implement for the people of Kenya,” he said, adding that leaders are currently briefing members across the country on the progress made in implementing the agreed agenda.

At the same briefing, UDA party chairperson Cecily Mbarire emphasised that while the coalition is reaching out to new partners, existing agreements within the Kenya Kwanza alliance remain intact.

“As this negotiation goes on, it’s important to say that the pact we have with our partners within the larger Kenya Kwanza coalition remains intact and very valid,” Mbarire said.

“We cannot go to look for new partners and lose the old ones.”

Mbarire said President Ruto has been clear on the need to unite the nation, noting that outreach efforts are part of a broader national cohesion agenda rather than a replacement of current coalition partners.

She also highlighted the role of UDA in ensuring accountability around the implementation of the 10-point agenda, stating that the party is actively involved beyond the executive level.

“The UDA party has worked very hard to facilitate the committee that oversees the implementation of the 10-point agenda,” she said.

“We are monitoring on a day-to-day basis to ensure that we stay true to what was agreed.”