By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 16 January 2026 - Ugenya Member of Parliament David Ochieng’ has raised concerns over emerging political cooperation between the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), warning that zoning arrangements ahead of the 2027 General Election could undermine democratic competition, particularly in Nyanza and Western Kenya.
Speaking at Sega Township Primary School grounds during the disbursement of Ksh 8.6 million in scholarships to 286 students admitted to national secondary schools, Ochieng’ cautioned that early political alignments should not translate into exclusionary agreements that lock out other parties from contesting elective seats in specific regions. He argued that such deals risk denying voters meaningful choices and weakening the competitive spirit that underpins Kenya’s multiparty democracy.
Ochieng’, who is the leader of the Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG), said his party—despite being a member of the Kenya Kwanza coalition—would not accept arrangements that curtail its political space. He insisted that MDG intends to field candidates across Nyanza and Western Kenya, regions traditionally viewed as ODM strongholds, and vowed to defend its right to compete freely.
The MP framed his remarks within a broader democratic context, noting that even during the one-party KANU era, elections still featured multiple candidates.
According to Ochieng’, attempts to zone regions today would represent a step backward, discouraging voter participation and eroding accountability.
He cited recent by-elections as evidence, pointing to constituencies where limited competition led to significantly low turnout. In Ugunja, he noted, voter participation dropped to about 24 percent, a figure he attributed to the absence of robust political contestation.
His comments come amid growing speculation over a possible strategic partnership between ODM and UDA following increased cooperation between President William Ruto’s administration and ODM leadership.
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While proponents argue that such cooperation could promote national cohesion and policy stability, critics like Ochieng’ warn that it may also consolidate power in ways that marginalize smaller parties and independent voices.
Despite his criticism, Ochieng’ reaffirmed MDG’s commitment to the Kenya Kwanza coalition and reiterated his support for President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.
However, he emphasised that coalition politics should not be confused with political monopoly. In his view, genuine unity must coexist with open competition, allowing voters to assess leaders on merit rather than party deals negotiated at the top.
Ochieng’ also reflected on the shifting political landscape in Nyanza following the death of former ODM leader Raila Odinga, whom he described as having long served as the region’s political anchor.
With that era now closed, he argued, the region requires a more open and competitive political environment to nurture new leadership and ideas.
The MP urged Kenyans to resist attempts to impose predetermined outcomes and instead demand inclusive politics that encourage participation and accountability. As the 2027 elections draw closer, his remarks underscore growing unease among smaller coalition partners over elite political bargains and signal potential realignments that could shape the next electoral cycle.
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