Raila Odinga Defends ODM–UDA Pact, Citing Peace and Stability Gains

Machakos, Kenya – September 22, 2025 – Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has defended the party’s decision to join forces with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), calling it a strategic compromise aimed at promoting national unity and stability.

Speaking during an ODM Parliamentary Group meeting in Machakos on Monday, Raila noted that the pact, signed in March 2025, had helped create an environment for dialogue while reducing political tension across the country.

“This far, a core agenda of our coming together has been achieved. We have a stable and peaceful country. We beat up the chaos and created an environment where we could agree to disagree without fights,” he stated.

Background and Political Context

The ODM–UDA alliance has drawn mixed reactions since its formation, with supporters pointing to reduced political hostilities while critics argue that it undermines opposition oversight. Raila’s remarks come amid calls for broader political reforms and growing debate over the role of coalition politics in Kenya’s governance.

The pact was initially presented as a step toward a “broad-based government,” a term analysts say reflects Kenya’s evolving power-sharing arrangements following contested elections in recent years.

Analysts Weigh In

Political observers note that ODM’s partnership with UDA could influence near-term policy priorities, especially in areas such as electoral reforms, economic recovery, and national cohesion.

“While the alliance has lowered political temperatures, stakeholders will want clarity on timelines, costs, and safeguards to ensure inclusivity and accountability,” said one Nairobi-based governance expert.

Implications and Next Steps

With the 2027 general election less than two years away, attention is turning to how ODM’s collaboration with the ruling party will shape Kenya’s political landscape. Questions remain about how opposition parties will position themselves and whether the pact will endure as economic and social pressures mount.

Raila Odinga, ODM, UDA, Kenyan Politics, 2025 Political Alliances