The political temperature is rising as the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) issues a firm demand to President William Ruto: fully implement the 10-point bipartisan deal before the 2027 elections.

This ultimatum, delivered by ODM leader and Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga, elevates the pact from a political handshake to a critical benchmark for future stability. Speaking at Chungwa House after meeting newly elected MPs on Tuesday, December 2, Oginga insisted that all thorny issues identified by the President and the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga must be resolved, framing the deal's success as a non-negotiable condition.

What's at Stake in the Agreement?

The 10-point memorandum of understanding, signed in March 2025, was a historic move aimed at ending divisive politics and fostering national unity. At its core is the full implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, a document born from bloody anti-government protests in 2023.

The agreement covers a wide range of issues critical to the average Kenyan, including:

• Cost of Living: Measures to address the soaring cost of living, including reducing the road maintenance and anti-adulteration levies on fuel.
• Electoral Justice: A comprehensive audit of the 2022 presidential election and the restructuring of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
• Governance Reforms: The creation of an Office of the Leader of the Opposition and an Office of the Prime Minister to enhance accountability.
• Strengthening Devolution: Increasing the equitable share to county governments from the current 15% to at least 20% of all national revenue.
• Inclusivity: Ensuring equitable resource allocation and opportunities in public appointments for all communities.

A Ticking Clock to 2027

Oginga's statement is a clear signal that the opposition's patience is wearing thin. “The party is firmly in the Broad-based arrangement, and the government should work hard to implement the 10-Point Agenda... before August of 2027,” Oginga stated, adding, “The party is united and strong and should not be taken for granted by anyone.”

While some progress has been noted, with ODM officials acknowledging that nearly half of the agenda has been addressed, the most significant constitutional and legal reforms remain pending. The process has faced hurdles, including a court order in April 2024 that temporarily halted the report's implementation, sparking accusations of sabotage from the opposition. Lawmakers are now expected to prioritize the NADCO-related bills as they resume sittings.

The government's next moves will be closely watched. How it navigates the implementation of these far-reaching reforms will not only determine its relationship with the opposition but will also profoundly shape the political landscape heading into the 2027 contest.