Makali Mulu's Stern Warning To ODM’s 50/50 Power Dream

Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu has delivered a sobering assessment of the Orange Democratic Movement’s ambitious bid for a 50/50 power sharing deal with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections arguing that the party must first resolve deep internal and strategic challenges before staking such a claim.

ODM’s national chairperson Gladys Wanga recently ignited debate by insisting the party should take half of government leadership slots as part of any coalition pact with UDA while conceding the presidency to Ruto as part of a negotiated arrangement.

Wanga speaking during a roadside rally in Dandora, said the party is confident it can dominate all elective posts in areas like Nairobi except the presidency itself.

But Mulu commenting on the public push emphasised that rhetoric alone won’t secure real influence.

He noted that for ODM to credibly demand an equal share of power it must first demonstrate broader unity and electoral weight across the country, not just in its traditional strongholds.

Mulu warned that factional tensions particularly from leaders on the Coast and in Western Kenya who feel underrepresented could weaken ODM’s bargaining position.

These internal strains he said threaten to fracture support just as coalition negotiations intensify.

The MP also highlighted growing pressure on individual legislators facing re-election suggesting that when elections draw nearer personal political survival may outweigh party loyalty potentially fuelling defections and further complicating ODM’s clout in negotiations.

As the 2027 polls loom Mulu’s critique offers a cautionary counter narrative to the party’s public confidence signaling that claiming half the spoils of power may require more groundwork than headline grabbing declarations.