Kenya’s political leadership met in Nairobi on Tuesday to review a cooperation plan that has been central to recent efforts to stabilize the country’s governance and economic direction. The meeting took place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre and brought together leaders from the ruling alliance and members of the ODM in a rare joint parliamentary group session.
Among those present were President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and Oburu Odinga, who attended on behalf of the Orange Democratic Movement. The gathering focused on assessing progress made under a 10-point cooperation agenda agreed upon between the United Democratic Alliance and ODM.
The cooperation framework was originally promoted by President Ruto and the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during a period marked by economic pressure and political tension following previous elections. The aim of the agreement was to create a working relationship between rival political sides in order to strengthen institutions and reduce political conflict.
Key issues in the agenda include reforms at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, a detailed audit of Kenya’s national debt, and changes in public appointments to ensure broader representation across different regions and communities. Leaders supporting the cooperation say these measures are necessary for strengthening democracy and improving government accountability.
Officials from the Kenya Kwanza side of government told the meeting that several steps have already been taken under the agreement. They pointed to infrastructure development, legislative adjustments in Parliament, and administrative reforms within government institutions as signs that the cooperation plan is moving forward. According to them, maintaining the partnership is important for national stability and for ensuring that key institutions continue to function effectively.
However, the meeting also exposed divisions within ODM and among other political actors. Critics linked to the emerging Linda Mwananchi movement argue that the cooperation agenda has slowed down and no longer addresses the everyday concerns of citizens. Some believe the arrangement is being used for political positioning rather than genuine reform.
Notably, several prominent ODM figures did not attend the gathering. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Siaya Governor James Orengo stayed away from the meeting, describing it as more of a publicity exercise than a meaningful political discussion.
For Oburu Odinga, the situation presents a delicate balancing act. As a senior party figure, he must manage growing internal disagreements while also maintaining dialogue with the current administration.
Supporters of the cooperation argue that keeping communication open with Kenya Kwanza could help ODM remain influential in shaping the country’s next phase of governance.
