NAIROBI - The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will persist in its role of holding the government accountable, deputy party leader and Kisii Governor Simba Arati announced on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. Speaking in Nakuru, Arati stated that despite ODM's participation in a broad-based government arrangement with President William Ruto's administration, the party will not ignore violations of human rights, theft of public funds, or other governmental excesses. This declaration signals a complex dual role for ODM, balancing cooperation with critical oversight.

“Even if we are in a broad-based government, we will not overlook violations of human rights and excesses by the administration,” Arati told supporters. He emphasized that ODM's core values, championed by its late leader Raila Odinga, remain unchanged and include a firm stance against corruption and extra-judicial killings. “We must reject corruption, even if we are in that broad-based government; justice must be done to every Kenyan,” Arati asserted.

The statement comes at a pivotal moment for ODM, which is navigating its identity following the death of Raila Odinga on October 15, 2025. The party's Central Management Committee confirmed in October 2025 that it would remain in the cooperation agreement with the government until the 2027 general election. This arrangement, initiated by President Ruto and the late Odinga, has created internal debate within the party. Some members view it as a path to national unity, while others fear it could dilute the party's opposition identity.

A Delicate Political Balance

Arati clarified that the cooperation does not represent a merger with the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition. He explained that ODM has seconded professionals to serve in government but remains an independent political entity committed to transparency and justice. This position was echoed by the party's interim leader, Senator Oburu Oginga, who stated that ODM would not return to the opposition but would instead be part of the government or a coalition that forms one. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Minority Leader Junet Mohammed have expressed similar sentiments.

However, this stance has not been universally embraced within the broader opposition. Mukhisa Kituyi, spokesperson for the United Opposition, has extended an invitation to disgruntled ODM members to join their ranks, suggesting that mainstream ODM ideologically aligns with the opposition. Cracks within ODM had appeared even before Odinga's passing, with figures like Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna voicing frustration over the government's adherence to their working agreement.

Accountability and Regional Politics

Arati's strong words on accountability are not new. In April 2024, ODM issued a statement demanding enhanced security for the governor, citing alleged harassment and threats from government and police officials. The party referenced a leaked telephone conversation allegedly involving a senior DCI officer discussing plans to undermine Arati. This history underscores the persistent friction between some government elements and the Kisii governor, who has been a vocal critic of state overreach. During his Nakuru address, Arati recalled an incident in 2023 when GSU officers were allegedly sent to his office to intimidate him.

Beyond its watchdog role, ODM is also focused on its political future. Arati announced plans to strengthen the party's presence in the Mount Kenya region and other areas, building on the support Odinga garnered in the last election. This includes opening a new county office in Nakuru to serve its supporters. The party's strategy appears to be twofold: maintain a critical voice on governance from within the government structure while simultaneously expanding its political footprint ahead of 2027. This approach positions ODM in a unique and challenging space in Kenyan politics, testing its ability to influence policy and maintain its relevance as both a partner and a critic of the ruling administration.