The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has lost one of its lawmakers after Lurambi MP Titus Khamala officially defected to the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Khamala announced his decision at his Shibuli residence following a meeting that reportedly lasted several hours with leaders allied to President William Ruto.
The lawmaker was welcomed into the party by members of the Western region presidential campaign team supporting Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid.
Among those present were Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, Teso South MP Mary Emase, Shinyalu MP Fred Ikana, Kiminini MP Kakai Bisau and Vihiga Woman Representative Beatrice Adagala.
Khamala said his move to UDA was aimed at strengthening President Ruto’s political support in Western Kenya and boosting development prospects for the region.
The MP noted that he had previously been elected under the ticket of the Amani National Congress party in 2017 before shifting to ODM ahead of the 2022 elections under the Azimio coalition.
He explained that he had hoped the coalition would form the government after the last election but decided to change course after it lost power.
Savula said Khamala’s defection could be followed by several other legislators from different parties, including ODM, who are reportedly considering joining UDA.
Meanwhile, divisions within ODM have continued to emerge, with one faction led by Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga supporting cooperation with the government, while another group associated with party Secretary General Edwin Sifuna is leaning towards a broader opposition alliance.
Leaders allied to the ruling party argued that development projects initiated by President Ruto have strengthened his political support in the Western region ahead of the 2027 General Election.
They also maintained that the opposition lacks a clear agenda, saying this could make it difficult to compete for votes in the region.
