Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir: ODM must be part of govt
By Nancy Marende, November 11, 2025Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir has reaffirmed that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) cannot afford to remain outside government, urging party members across the country to unite and organise towards reclaiming power.
Speaking during a meeting with the ODM Nyali branch led by Chairman Tom Minya and Patron Said Abdallah on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, Governor Nassir emphasised that it is time for the party to translate its ideals into real influence at the national level.
“For two decades, ODM has shaped Kenya’s political direction, inspired movements for justice, and produced leaders whose influence runs through every layer of government. As we celebrate Baba Raila Odinga’s 80 years and 20 years of ODM’s transformative journey, our mission is clear: the Orange Democratic Movement must either form a government or be part of a government,” he said.
He urged ODM members and supporters to move beyond rhetoric and take deliberate steps to strengthen the party at the grassroots.
“That is the duty of every member, to organise, mobilise, and build alliances that ensure ODM remains at the heart of decision-making in this country. Our people look to us for leadership, and we owe it to them to deliver opportunity, equity, and dignity to all Kenyans,” he added.
The governor lauded the Nyali branch leadership for their commitment to party unity and grassroots engagement, describing their work as central to ODM’s renewed momentum in the Coast region.
Also present at the meeting were Hon. Said Abdallah (Patron, Nyali), MCAs Fatma Kushe (Kadzandani), Milka Areba (Nominated), Athman Mwamiri (Likoni), Salim Mbaya (Timbwani), and Manuari Juma (Bofu), alongside the ODM County Coordinating Committee led by Chairman Mohamed Khamis.
Ruth Odinga clarifies claims
This comes a day after Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga dismissed reports suggesting she is opposed to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) entering a coalition ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Odinga said her remarks were misinterpreted and taken out of context.
She clarified that she fully supports ODM working with other political parties, provided the party itself remains strong, united and well-grounded.
Speaking when Ndhiwa MP Martin Owino led a delegation to Kango ka Jaramogi to condole with the family following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, she emphasised that her concerns have always centred on internal cohesion.
“I am not against a coalition between ODM and other parties. What I keep saying is that we must have one strong ODM. We have been in the trenches, and we know what unity can do,” she said.