ODM Disability League declares support for Ruto’s 2027 pre-election bid

The ODM Disability League has publicly backed President William Ruto's bid for a second term in the 2027 General Election, while simultaneously advocating for increased representation of persons with disabilities in political decision-making. During a speech at the Mama Grace Onyango Social Hall in Kisumu on August 12, 2026, ODM National Disability League president Nickson Kakiri emphasized that persons with disabilities should not merely be considered voters but should also have a voice in political and governmental matters.

Kakiri declared the league's commitment to supporting Ruto's re-election for two terms and announced efforts to mobilize persons with disabilities at the grassroots level.

The league aims to unite persons with disabilities from various organizations and groups to strengthen its structures in preparation for the upcoming election. Kakiri also proposed a meeting between Ruto and representatives of persons with disabilities, seeking an opportunity for these individuals to present their concerns and political positions directly to the President.

Siaya MCA Andrew Omwende, who chairs the ODM Disability League in Siaya, echoed the call for greater participation of persons with disabilities in party affairs, urging the President to invite disability representatives to State House for direct engagement. Omwende stressed that persons with disabilities possess valid votes, equal to those of other voters.

Charles Otieno, representing Kisumu East Sub-County, highlighted the resolution to bolster the league at ward and grassroots levels, encouraging members to engage with political leaders within their communities and push for development programs targeting persons with disabilities. Linet Arega, a person with a disability from Seme Sub-County, stressed the need for a stronger voice in local political and development programs.

The leaders emphasized that strengthening the disability league at the grassroots level would empower members to raise their concerns and participate in decisions affecting their communities. This grassroots mobilization of the ODM Disability League comes as political parties and interest groups prepare for the 2027 General Election, with Kakiri stating that the group will continue organizing members nationwide while seeking direct engagement with the President.