‘We demand respect!’ ODM warns UDA amid rising tensions in broad-based Gov't

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has expressed concern over its relationship with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), accusing some of the ruling party's senior officials of making remarks that risk straining ties between the two political outfits.

In a statement following a meeting of its Central Committee held Thursday, the Dr. Oburu Oginga-led party cited what it termed as "unwarranted public utterances" by some UDA officials saying their remarks were worrying for the Orange party.

The party thus called on the ruling party to accord it respect in its daily to day conduct, owing to the perceived disquiet within the broad-based government.

“On our relationship with our broad-based partners, the UDA party, the Central Committee noted with concern the goings on and the unwarranted public utterances by some senior officials of the UDA Party aimed at causing anxiety and disquiet among our members,” ODM stated in a statement read by Deputy Secretary General Catherine Omanyo.

“As a party that believes in its principles, ideology and the foundation on which it was founded, we demand respect from the UDA party.”

The party commended its ongoing grassroots elections and urged its members to remain united as it prepares for the next General Election, promising transparent nominations.

“The Central Committee commended the National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC) for conducting peaceful, transparent and verifiable grassroots elections across the country. The exercise is 98 percent complete,” read the statement.

“We want to assure our members and supporters that in the build-up to the General Election, we shall conduct free and fair nominations and there will be no sacred cows for any position sought.”

As part of efforts to strengthen the party, ODM announced plans to roll out a series of youth conventions across 25 counties.

“As part of the activation program, we shall be embarking on countrywide tours for a series of youth conventions aimed at rejuvenating, revamping and re-energizing the party,” ODM noted, adding that the programme will begin in Nairobi on April 20 before moving to Mombasa on April 26.

The meeting also reviewed internal party activities, including the recent National Delegates Convention (NDC) held in Nairobi.

ODM said it had taken stock of “the successful Special sitting of the National Delegates Convention held on Friday 27th March 2026 at the ASK Showgrounds in Nairobi,” applauding the National Secretariat and organising committee for a smooth event.

On national issues, the ODM Central Committee raised concern over the rising cost of fuel, urging the government to do more to cushion Kenyans.

“Kenyans are concerned about the increase in fuel prices. We know this is a global problem. While noting the government’s efforts to mitigate the situation, we continue to push it to do more to cushion Kenyans from the effects of this crisis,” the party stated.

The Central Committee also referenced progress in the implementation of the NADCO agreement, particularly compensation for victims of police brutality.

“As part of the agreement… we have noted progress with the allocation of Ksh.2 billion in the Supplementary budget… we therefore urge the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights to expedite this exercise and ensure all the affected families are compensated,” ODM said.