“ODM Could Offer President Ruto a 2027 Ticket If UDA Fails to Convince Kenyans,” Abdulswamad Says

Mombasa Governor and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Nassir has issued a bold warning to the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), stating that ODM is ready to hand President William Ruto a presidential ticket in 2027 if UDA fails to adequately convince Kenyans to support his re-election.

Speaking on October 22, 2026, Nassir made it clear that under the current broad-based political framework, the burden is heavily on UDA’s campaign machinery, declaring that if the ruling party slackens, ODM will gladly offer the President an “ODM jersey” to seek a second term under their party banner.

“If UDA is not careful and we realise that it fails to convince Kenyans to support William Ruto, we will give him an ODM jersey so that he can run for president on an ODM ticket,” Nassir said.

This development comes amid ongoing deliberations within ODM regarding a structured pre-election coalition with UDA ahead of the 2027 General Election. While top opposition stalwarts have affirmed their support for Ruto’s broad-based administration to foster national cohesion and regional development, they have simultaneously set tough conditions for a formal pact.

One of the ODM’s main demands is securing the Deputy President slot under the proposed 2027 joint ticket. Top party leaders, including Nassir, have previously maintained that while they are open to endorsing Ruto for the top seat, the running mate position must be reserved for an ODM member to reflect the party’s massive countrywide influence.

Nassir’s latest pronouncement effectively turns up the heat on UDA’s internal strategists. By openly suggesting that President Ruto could bypass the ruling party’s machinery altogether if public dissatisfaction grows, the ODM deputy leader has masterfully positioned his party as an indispensable powerhouse capable of dictating the terms of the 2027 presidential contest. UDA has yet to issue an official response to the claims.

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