ODM Sets Sights on 2027 Victory with Strategic Shift from Opposition to Government
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has unveiled an ambitious roadmap aimed at securing power in the 2027 General Election following a high-level retreat held in Mombasa County.
 |
| Members of the ODM party led by the National chair, Governor Gladys Wanga ( Photo Courtesy) |
The meeting brought together key party organs, including Members of Parliament, Senators, Governors, the National Executive Committee, and other senior officials, in what insiders describe as a decisive moment in the party’s political recalibration.
In a notable strategic shift, ODM signaled its intention to move away from opposition-style politics anchored in protests and demonstrations, opting instead to pursue change from within government structures.
The party emphasized that its long-standing reform agenda, championed by its founding leader Raila Odinga, remains central but will now be advanced through democratic participation and institutional engagement.
ODM leaders reiterated their commitment to forming the next government either independently or as part of a coalition, positioning themselves as a key contender in the 2027 political landscape.
A central focus of the retreat was strengthening the party’s internal structures and expanding its national footprint. ODM resolved to intensify recruitment efforts by identifying and vetting candidates aligned with its ideals, while also improving the credibility and transparency of its nomination processes. The party is seeking to rebuild trust among its supporters by ensuring fairness in internal elections and strengthening its ideological identity.
The leadership also placed strong emphasis on inclusivity, particularly among young people and women. Plans are underway to revamp the youth and women leagues to ensure a more balanced generational and gender representation within party leadership. At the same time, ODM intends to deepen its engagement with grassroots networks by empowering local structures to take a more active role in mobilization, voter registration, and election management processes.
Looking ahead, the party is embracing technology as a key pillar of its 2027 strategy. ODM announced plans to integrate artificial intelligence and digital systems into its organizational framework, signaling a shift toward data-driven campaigning and modern political engagement. This approach is expected to complement efforts to strengthen its presence among young voters, particularly through the activation of party chapters in universities and colleges across the country.
Beyond internal reforms, ODM outlined a broader governance and policy agenda that reflects its long-standing commitment to social justice and economic inclusion. The party intends to push for lower data costs to improve access to digital services, advocate for the full disbursement of political party funds, and support compensation for victims of police brutality. It also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening social welfare programs, including increasing financial support for vulnerable groups such as the elderly.
ODM leaders underscored their belief in equitable distribution of resources and the need for accountable governance, positioning the party as a champion of ordinary citizens across the country.
Political observers note that the party’s recalibrated strategy may reshape local political dynamics and intensify competition as the election cycle approaches.
The resolutions from the Mombasa retreat ultimately reflect a party seeking reinvention and relevance, as ODM transitions from a protest-driven movement to a structured political force aiming to capture power through the ballot, post Raila Odinga leadership.