The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has begun efforts to rebuild and strengthen its grassroots support as it prepares for political negotiations and possible alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during an interview with a local radio station on Thursday, September 10, 2026, ODM Communication Director Philip Etale said the party’s influence at the negotiating table would depend largely on the strength of its support base.
Etale argued that ODM must maintain and expand its numbers across the country if it is to secure a favourable position in any future political arrangement.
Party Seeks Stronger Bargaining Position
The ODM official said political negotiations are influenced by the number of supporters and political structures that each party brings into an alliance.
He said the party was therefore working to preserve its existing support while expanding its reach to new areas.
Etale noted that ODM could not expect to secure a strong position in negotiations if it entered discussions with a significantly smaller political base than its potential partners.
The party is consequently planning a series of grassroots activities across the country aimed at reconnecting with supporters and revitalising its structures.
October Declared ‘Raila Month’
Etale said ODM would intensify its nationwide mobilisation programme in October, a month the party has designated as “Raila Month” in memory of its late leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Raila died on October 15, 2025, after decades as one of Kenya’s most prominent opposition leaders.
According to Etale, ODM will dedicate the entire month to commemorative activities across the country, combining remembrance of Raila with efforts to strengthen the party’s grassroots presence ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said party leaders would travel to different regions to meet supporters and participate in rallies and other activities marking the first anniversary of Raila’s death.
ODM Plans Nationwide Activities
Etale said the programme would feature numerous party-based activities across the country throughout October.
He added that ODM’s organising secretary, Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, would formally unveil the programme and provide details of the planned activities.
The announcement is expected to outline the various events through which the party will honour Raila while also engaging its supporters as it prepares for the political contest ahead.
The planned “Raila Month” comes at a significant period for ODM, with the party seeking to consolidate its political base and determine its position in the alliances and negotiations that will shape the 2027 General Election.
