Kisii Governor Simba Arati has put a bold condition on any possible ODM support for President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid, insisting the opposition party must secure an equal 50% share of government alongside UDA.
Highlights
- Arati says ODM is seeking a 50/50 power-sharing arrangement with UDA.
- The governor says the deal should include key government positions.
- ODM has previously pushed for the Deputy President position.
- Arati spoke while accompanying Ruto during his Nyanza development tour.
- Ruto is visiting several Nyanza counties to inspect and launch development projects.
Main Story
Arati Sets ODM’s Terms
Governor Simba Arati has reiterated that ODM will not settle for a lesser share of government if the party backs President William Ruto for a second term in 2027.
Speaking during Ruto’s tour of Nyanza, Arati maintained that ODM and Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance should divide government responsibilities equally if they enter into a political partnership.
The Kisii governor, who also serves as an ODM deputy leader, said the proposed arrangement should give the two parties an equal stake in the next administration.
‘No Shortcut’ on Power Sharing
Arati was categorical about the party’s position, arguing that ODM’s contribution to Ruto’s re-election campaign should be reflected in the composition of government.
According to the governor, the 50/50 proposal would extend to important government positions rather than being limited to political cooperation during the election period.
His latest remarks reinforce a position he has previously expressed as discussions around a possible ODM-UDA alliance continue.
ODM’s 2027 Calculations
ODM leaders have increasingly been discussing what the party would receive in return for supporting Ruto’s bid for another term.
Among the positions previously mentioned by the party is that of Deputy President, should Ruto remain the presidential candidate.
The talks come against the backdrop of a broader political realignment ahead of the 2027 General Election, with parties weighing possible alliances and negotiating their influence in a future administration.
Ruto Continues Nyanza Tour
Arati made the remarks while accompanying President Ruto during his ongoing tour of the Nyanza region.
The President’s itinerary includes Kisumu, Siaya, Migori and Homa Bay counties, where he is inspecting and launching various development projects.
The projects include road works, water initiatives, markets and other public infrastructure developments.
As the 2027 political season approaches, however, development politics is increasingly being accompanied by conversations about alliances, power and who gets what in the next government.
With 2027 drawing closer, the big political question may no longer be who will form alliances, but how much each side will demand before signing on the dotted line.
