Suna East MP Junet Mohamed has warned that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) could walk out of its political arrangement with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) if alleged harassment of its lawmakers continues.
In a strongly worded statement that signals growing unease within the opposition party, Junet accused unnamed state officials of targeting ODM legislators through intimidation, coercion and political raids in its traditional strongholds ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“We are not in government by mistake, and we do not lack options,” he said, in remarks that underscore escalating tensions within the fragile political détente between ODM and UDA.
The warning lays bare cracks in a relationship that has, in recent months, been defined by cautious cooperation — particularly in Parliament, where ODM has occasionally backed government positions despite remaining formally in opposition.
Junet, a close ally of ODM leader Raila Odinga, claimed that the party’s lawmakers were being pressured to align with government interests, even as political operatives allegedly moved to weaken ODM’s grip in key regions.
“They are harassing our MPs, coercing them and raiding our strongholds. That cannot be the basis of any working relationship,” he said.
While he did not name specific officials or agencies, the remarks reflect broader complaints that have been quietly building within ODM ranks — that sections of the state are using their influence to reshape political loyalties ahead of the next election cycle.
The developments come at a time when President Ruto has intensified grassroots engagements and political outreach across the country, hosting delegations at State House and seeking to consolidate support beyond his traditional base.
Analysts say such moves, while politically strategic, risk deepening mistrust among potential allies if perceived as attempts to undermine rival parties.
Junet’s warning also places ODM leader Raila Odinga in a delicate position, balancing between maintaining political relevance through strategic engagement with the government and safeguarding the party’s independence ahead of 2027.
ODM has historically positioned itself as a reformist party, often critical of state excesses. Any perception that it is being absorbed into government structures could erode its support base, particularly in its strongholds.
At the same time, the party’s cooperation with UDA has offered it influence in legislative processes, creating a complex relationship that is neither fully adversarial nor entirely collaborative.
Junet’s remarks suggest that patience within ODM may be wearing thin.
Political observers say a breakdown of the arrangement between ODM and UDA could significantly reshape the country’s political landscape, potentially triggering new alliances and sharpening the contest for power.
“If ODM pulls out, it would mark a return to full-scale political rivalry and could redefine the battle lines ahead of 2027,” said a Nairobi-based analyst.
Efforts to get a response from UDA officials were unsuccessful by the time of publication.
For now, Junet’s message appears clear: unless President Ruto reins in what ODM describes as rogue elements within the system, the uneasy political truce may not hold.
