Kenya Kwanza, ODM begin work on joint 2027 manifesto

Nairobi, Kenya, on August 10 — President William Ruto has revealed that Kenya Kwanza and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have agreed to collaborate as a coalition for the 2027 General Election, transforming their government partnership into a joint electoral platform. The announcement was made during a gathering in Naivasha, where Ruto emphasized the parties' decision to develop a common manifesto and jointly seek Kenya's mandate in the upcoming election.

This shift marks a significant change from their previous cooperation in government to a formal political arrangement aimed at securing power in 2027. Ruto stated that the partnership, initially driven by national stability and cooperation, now necessitates a clear political framework ahead of the elections. A 10-member team, with representatives from both political formations, will be tasked with creating the joint manifesto, which will be presented to voters in 2027.

The coalition will draw from shared values and priorities, as well as insights from Kenyans gathered through national consultations and discussions on Kenya Beyond Vision 2030 and the National Development Charter. Ruto acknowledged that the coalition cannot rely solely on its existing achievements in government and stressed that the campaign must answer broader questions about Kenya's long-term development trajectory, transcending political and electoral cycles.