THE BROAD-BASED TRAP? Ayacko Blows the Whistle on ODM-UDA Coalition Talks, Demands Written Terms

Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko has called on the leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to make public the proposed coalition agreement between the two political parties ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Ayacko has argued that any formal cooperation or power-sharing arrangement between the parties should be openly presented to Kenyans rather than negotiated behind closed doors by a few senior political figures.

His demand comes amid growing political discussions surrounding possible alliances and realignments as parties begin positioning themselves for the next general election.

The governor’s concerns centre on the terms of the proposed arrangement, particularly how government positions, legislative priorities and joint campaign strategies would be shared between the two parties.

He believes that making the agreement publicly available would allow party members, supporters and other stakeholders to understand what their respective leaderships are negotiating.

Ayacko’s position also reflects concerns among some regional political leaders that decisions made exclusively at the national level could overlook the interests and expectations of grassroots supporters.

He has maintained that a written agreement subjected to public scrutiny would promote transparency, strengthen accountability and protect the interests of party members across the country.

The debate has exposed differing views within political circles over how the proposed cooperation should be handled. While supporters of inter-party negotiations argue that political cooperation can promote stability and strengthen influence in government, critics believe that excluding ordinary members from important decisions could create resentment and weaken party unity.

For ODM, the proposed relationship with UDA remains a significant political issue as leaders and supporters consider the party’s direction ahead of 2027.

Ayacko’s intervention therefore places additional pressure on the parties’ leadership to clarify the nature and objectives of their discussions.

Meanwhile, the governor has also attracted attention over reports that he intends to contest the Migori gubernatorial seat again, adding another dimension to his political positioning ahead of the next election.

How ODM and UDA respond to the demand for public disclosure could influence internal discussions and the level of support any eventual agreement receives.

With the 2027 elections approaching, transparency, grassroots consultation and the distribution of political influence are likely to remain central issues in negotiations between the two parties.

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