Kaluma declares ODM will remain in Ruto’s broad-based govt
Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has reaffirmed that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will remain part of President William Ruto’s broad-based government even after the death of its party leader, Raila Odinga.
In a statement shared on his X account on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Kaluma said the party would continue in the government formed for equity, inclusivity, and national unity.
You might also like
Also watch: Ruto: ODM will either form the next government or be part of it
He also insisted that ODM would remain a distinct political entity even as it works with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) under the existing memorandum of understanding.
Kaluma urged critics of the arrangement, including PLP Party Leader Martha Karua and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, to respect Odinga’s legacy.
He cautioned them against discrediting the party’s decisions, saying ODM would follow Odinga’s political direction to the letter and continue cooperating with President Ruto beyond 2027.
“@MarthaKarua, @GeorgeNatembeya: It is too early to move from one media station to the next, discrediting the legacy of Baba @RailaOdinga barely 3 days after his funeral. Please respect our culture. We will follow Baba’s political will and direction to the letter: 1. ODM is and will remain a distinct political party. 2. We are in the Broad-Based Government created by Baba and President Ruto for equity, inclusivity and national unity. This will be so beyond 2027. 3. Baba has rested. We remain with President Ruto as our leader under the MOU between ODM and UDA,” Kaluma stated.
Kaluma’s remarks come amid growing uncertainty over ODM’s future following Odinga’s death on October 15, 2025.
His passing has left a leadership vacuum and raised questions about who will take over and unify the party ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Also watch: Governor Wanga appeals to Kenyans to keep Raila’s dream alive
Without him, the party faces an identity crisis as it adjusts from being Kenya’s main opposition force to a partner in government.
The broad-based government deal between ODM and UDA, signed in March 2025, blurred traditional political lines and continues to divide opinion within the party.
Some members argue that remaining in government ensures stability and influence, while others fear it weakens ODM’s independence and reformist image.
During Odinga’s state funeral at Nyayo Stadium, President William Ruto paid a glowing tribute to the former Prime Minister, describing him as a patriot who placed the nation above self.
Also watch: Oburu Odinga appointed acting ODM leader after Raila’s death
Ruto said the broad-based government was one of Odinga’s final acts of statesmanship and pledged to honour that vision by working closely with ODM to unite the country.
He assured ODM members that their place in government was secure and that Odinga’s dream of inclusivity and stability would continue under the current administration.
