Governor Barasa backs talks with Ruto's UDA

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has reaffirmed Western Kenya’s commitment to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

This, he said, whilesignallingg openness to a structured political collaboration with the President William Ruto- led United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Cup pressure peaks as Shabana host Kenya Police in blockbuster quarter-final Football

Upper Hill coach Walgwe unperturbed despite drawing giants in Prescott Cup group phase Rugby

"The western region remains firmly rooted in ODM, and Kakamega County, under my leadership as the party’s county chairperson, will align its political strategy with the broad-based government approach," Barasa said.

The governor revealed that efforts are underway to harmonise leadership structures across party lines.

Barasa, who is also the chairperson of the 47 counties, indicated that elected leaders from MCA to MP, senator, woman representative, and governor in Kakamega County will be formed by ODM and UDA.

“We have given our party leader, Oburu Oginga, the mandate to negotiate with UDA and this are our three key non-negotiables," he said.

They include national unity, equity in development and cohesion, and prosperity of the nation.

Barasa also exuded confidence in ODM’s political strength, asserting that the party commands significant grassroots support.

He maintained that regardless of whether electoral zoning arrangements are adopted, ODM is poised to secure the highest number of MPs and MCAs.

On his part, Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati called on youths to ensure they're registered voters.

ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga reiterated the need for the opposition team to steer clear of ODM party issues.

On Thursday,

President William Ruto hosted top officials from UDA and ODM at State House, Nairobi, in a fresh push to strengthen cooperation between the two parties.

The meeting brought together officials from the UDA Steering Committee and the ODM Central Management Committee and was co-chaired by President Ruto and ODM party leader Oburu.

According to a State House statement, the leaders agreed to establish a Broad-Based Management Committee comprising the two party leaders, selected Cabinet ministers and the Majority and Minority leaders in Parliament.

The committee will coordinate and synchronise the legislative and executive agenda of the government to improve efficiency and service delivery.

The meeting comes amid growing political discussions around the relationship between ODM and the UDA ahead of the 2027 General Election.

In recent weeks, ODM has held internal meetings to deliberate on possible structured engagement with UDA, with party leader Oburu saying the agenda for the talks was still being drafted by a technical team.

Oburu had said public discussions on the details of the talks were premature, insisting that only the party’s technical team would determine the final agenda before it is made public.