ODM's future uncertain as party navigates tensions with Ruto's UDA
via Tuko7 min read
The Orange Democratic Movement ODM is reportedly facing internal challenges and a potential political trap due to its increasing alignment with President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance UDA. What began as quiet engagements has evolved into a partnership, including Cabinet appointments and shared political platforms. However, the ODM's Central Committee is demanding respect amid complaints of being undermined, with some analysts suggesting key ODM figures have been strategically co-opted into government. The passing of Raila Odinga has further exposed party divisions, and party leader Oburu Oginga is struggling to maintain cohesion. Disagreements over zoning and political direction have intensified friction with UDA. While President Ruto defends the alliance, dissent within ODM is growing, with some leaders warning of a loss of identity and hinting at alternative political paths. The Weekend Star reports that President Ruto faces mounting pressure as ODM threatens to withdraw from the broad-based arrangement crucial for his 2027 re-election. ODM leaders accuse UDA of undermining the party by attracting its elected officials. The ODM's Central Committee has suspended coalition talks and instructed members to reduce involvement in Ruto’s re-election campaigns. Political analysts suggest a fallout could isolate Ruto if ODM allies with the opposition. The dispute is also fueled by disagreements over zoning, with ODM insisting its strongholds are non-negotiable, a stance
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Kansai Plascon Kenya has launched the Wallcover K'Ogalo Edition, a limited-edition paint product designed to fund Gor Mahia's 2026/27 CAF Champions League campaign. A percentage of the proceeds from each sale of this special variant of Plascon Trade Wall Cover Emulsion will directly support the club's continental participation. Gor Mahia Chairman Ambrose Rachier and Kansai Plascon Managing Director Enami Kota spoke at the launch. Kota stated that the partnership aims to invest in a legacy that inspires millions of Kenyans, allowing supporters to contribute directly to the club's future. Rachier welcomed the initiative, highlighting it as a model for sustainable football development and emphasizing that supporters' purchases will play a tangible role in the club's continental journey. The product packaging features Gor Mahia's green-and-white colors and championship-inspired graphics, celebrating their 2025/26 Football Kenya Federation Premier League title win. The campaign operates under the theme "Champions on the Pitch. Champions in Every Home."
Nairobi City County has officially gazetted the Development Control Policy 2026, a significant step in Governor Johnson Sakaja’s efforts to bring order to the capital’s rapidly expanding built environment and control unplanned developments. This policy establishes a comprehensive legal and planning framework to guide the approval of buildings and land developments in the city. Governor Sakaja stated that the policy replaces fragmented planning approaches with a clear and predictable development framework, aiming to protect residential neighborhoods, public spaces, and the environment while promoting sustainable investment. The new policy will guide development approvals through defined zoning regulations, building height limits, density controls, environmental safeguards, and infrastructure capacity. New developments will also be aligned with the availability of essential services such as water, sewerage systems, and road networks. The framework was developed with extensive public participation, involving resident associations, professionals, developers, and local communities. Sakaja described the policy as a key pillar of his administration’s vision for a well-planned, modern, and livable capital city, ensuring orderly and sustainable growth that benefits all residents. The gazettement follows the policy’s approval by the Nairobi City County Assembly and fulfills the county’s commitment to establish an enforceable development control framework. The policy is expected to stre
Must ReadDuring the closing hours of the Ol Kalou Constituency parliamentary by-election on Thursday, July 16, hooded armed men attacked journalists and fired teargas at voters. Incidents occurred at Ol Kalou Comprehensive School and AC Primary School, where masked individuals, some armed and in unmarked vehicles, clashed with crowds. Radio Africa Group's Enos Teche was physically assaulted and had his camera seized by hooded men arriving in a convoy of five Toyota Prado SUVs and a smaller vehicle outside Ol Kalou Comprehensive School. Witnesses reported police officers were present but did not intervene. Teche was also affected by teargas launched by the hooded men to disperse a crowd. NTV cameraman George Kieru's equipment was also confiscated at the same location. At AC Primary School, a separate group of hooded men confronted youths, and teargas was reportedly fired from their escort vehicles. Videos showed masked individuals with guns in a Toyota Land Cruiser, attempting to disperse people outside polling stations, and men with batons pursuing members of the public, with claims of election interference. A police Land Cruiser was also seen moving through crowds outside Ol Kalou Comprehensive School. Voters stated they remained outside polling stations after casting ballots to safeguard the results.