By WAKHUNGU ANDANJE
April 20, 2026| As the 2027 general election approaches, leaders from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are calling for patience and dialogue. They argue that both parties should be allowed sufficient time to deliberate and reach an amicable agreement on power-sharing within the current broad-based formation.
The need for structured talks has become urgent, particularly due to growing internal divisions within ODM. The party appears split between those who favour joining forces with UDA and those who prefer an independent bid for the presidency.
Speaking at the burial of Mama Rael Lucia Khasiala—mother of Kakamega County financial management chief of staff Diminah Chikamai—Kakamega ODM chairman Fernandez Barasa urged rival factions within his party to hold their horses. He called for space to allow both parties’ leadership to negotiate a solid way forward.
“It is high time ODM stopped the disgruntling amongst ourselves,” Barasa said. “We must give UDA and ODM leadership the opportunity to harness the two parties ahead of talks meant to solidify a strong broad-based government that can clinch all seats, from MCA to president.”
Barasa warned that political opponents were benefiting from ODM’s internal strife. He expressed hope that a new formation would allow a smooth transition into the next election cycle and urged splinter groups within ODM to support the talks, describing them as beneficial to the party’s chances of retaining power.
The governor also reaffirmed his support for President William Ruto and himself to be given a second term. In a direct message to those eyeing the Kakamega gubernatorial seat, he said: “Let this reach those seeking to unseat me. I am not the same Barasa you knew in 2023. This one is more resilient and ready to defend his seat. I will be done with you very early.”
On the ongoing Malava by-election petition, Barasa urged petitioner Seth Panyako to withdraw the case. He argued this would allow voter registration to proceed in the constituency. In return, Barasa said he would consult with the President to help secure a job for Panyako as a medical practitioner.
On development, the governor noted he is pushing for the opening of the Malava dairy by the end of the year, which he said would create employment. He also lauded collaboration between the county and national government on completing Bukhungu Stadium ahead of next year’s AFCON and the Level 6 Kakamega General Hospital, which he said would employ 3,000 people upon completion.
While Barasa’s views reflect one side of the debate, critics may argue that premature electoral pacts could sideline voter choice or that the courts should resolve the Malava petition independently. Whether UDA and ODM ultimately merge or compete remains to be seen, but leaders on all sides agree that dialogue—not public feuding—will determine the next chapter.