Politics

Preparations, including the recruitment and training of polling officials and the deployment of logistical support teams, have been completed or are ongoing, while the dispatch of election materials is expected to be finalised in time for polling day.

He stressed that it is Ruto who needs ODM, not the other way around, as the president has failed to live up to Kenyans’ expectations.

She addressed hundreds of young delegates in Mombasa on Friday during the second day of ODM at 20 celebrations, urging the youth to take up leadership and drive the party toward national victory.

The NGC also approved Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, Godfrey Osotsi, and Simba Arati as Deputy Party Leaders (DPLs).

In the run-up to the 2007 elections, ODM-Kenya was thrown into disarray after a bitter fallout between Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka over the party’s presidential ticket.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, and former Assistant Minister Julia Ojiambo have also been invited.

According to Alila, the party is seeking to build a coordinated grassroots movement anchored on green energy, environmental protection, and good governance, adding that the new office will serve as a service point for residents seeking support on public service issues and development initiatives.

Political observers who spoke to the Eastleigh Voice described Oburu’s remarks as politically explosive. Already, a group of Meru politicians allied to Kindiki has issued a warning to President Ruto following the ODM leader’s demands.

In the National Assembly contests, six constituencies are set for heated races with a total of 50 candidates entering the fray. Magarini leads with ten contenders, including Harrison Kombe of ODM, seeking to reclaim the seat after a court nullified his previous victory.

Kioni said the by-elections will not only be about measuring the strengths and popularity of political parties but also how well the IEBC is prepared for the general election.

Oburu dismissed claims that Babu’s ambitions could be blocked, saying the party would ensure a fair nomination process and that no aspirant would be denied a chance if they win support from party members.

Party Leader Oburu Oginga maintained that the party will only negotiate for top positions from a position of strength, and not desperation.

At a meeting chaired by Kisii Governor Simba Arati, one of the three ODM deputy party leaders, the leaders announced that ODM tickets would only be given to bona fide members.

MP Reuben Ndolo threatened to mobilise supporters to block the celebrations if the party failed to heed his call.

Jubilee secretary general Jeremiah Kioni, while addressing the media, said the party had officially received and endorsed Matiang’i’s request to run for the top seat.

The ODM Central Management Committee has confirmed Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga as party leader, urging unity and support as the movement enters a new chapter following Raila Odinga’s death.

In the wake of Raila Odinga’s death, ODM vows to preserve the historic unity deal with President Ruto, calling on party members to uphold his legacy and maintain peace and cohesion nationwide.

This development came just days after Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir confirmed that the party was scheduled to hold its first Central Committee meeting on Monday, October 27, 2025, following the passing of its leader.

He emphasised that the anniversary would celebrate both the party’s milestone and the late leader’s enduring legacy.

ODM Deputy Party Leader and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi said the late leader had been deeply passionate about the agreement, which sought to address key national issues ranging from governance and human rights to accountability and inclusivity.

Ruto reflected on their long journey through Kenya’s political arena, recalling the 2022 elections, which he described as a contest between teacher and student.

The President described ODM as a party with deep national roots and a rich history of struggle for justice and reform. He emphasised that its founder, Raila Odinga, played a central role in shaping Kenya’s democratic journey.

Winnie’s political career began in late 2022 when she was elected to represent Kenya in the East African Legislative Assembly, following her election by both the National Assembly and Senate on November 17, 2022.

The MP called for peace and respect as the country prepares to lay the iconic leader to rest, saying the burial should serve as a unifying moment rather than one marred by tension or political divisions.

In Kenya's politics, Raila has been known as the master of handshakes, having signed working cooperation with different Presidents, including William Ruto, Uhuru Kenyatta, Mwai Kibaki and Daniel Moi.

The committee said Khalwale’s support for the opposing candidate in Malava has been “open, vocal, conspicuous and substantial” to clearly demonstrate that he is promoting a position that is against his own party’s interest.

Speaking at the party headquarters in Nairobi, the youth argued that no alliance or coalition can save the regime that violates constitutional governance and undermines the rule of law.

The denial followed a viral article claiming that Ruto had dispatched government officials offering Muturi financial incentives to consider rejoining the Kenya Kwanza coalition.

President Ruto described KANU as “fundamental to the nation” and emphasised that his outreach to Gideon Moi was part of a broader plan to unite the country.

Campaigns are set to run from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm daily and will officially conclude on Monday, November 24, 48 hours before the polling day.

He emphasised that there should be a clear distinction in government priorities, such as ending poverty, arguing that certain responsibilities, like protecting the nation from economic aggression, cannot be left to the private sector.

According to the petition, the IEBC's blanket suspension of voter registration in the entire constituency contravenes Article 38(3) of the Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to be registered as a voter without unreasonable restrictions.

Gachagua argued that delays in announcing presidential results at the national level have in the past created opportunities for manipulation.

The youthful legislator expressed concern over the low turnout being reported across the country, warning that the future of Kenya depends on the youth’s willingness to fulfil their civic duty by electing responsible leaders.

In what many view as a bold political move that could redefine opposition unity, Maraga’s decision could pose a serious challenge to Ruto’s bid for a second term if it materialises.

Speaking in Magarini shortly after receiving the party ticket, Kenga lauded DCP’s leadership for what he termed a timely and strategic decision to back his candidature.

They noted that their rallies will be targeting the Generation Z who have been yearning for change in different spheres of leadership in the country

Jubilee’s decision is being viewed as part of broader efforts by opposition parties to strengthen their electoral strategy by avoiding internal competition in key areas, particularly in Nairobi.

He added, “I have committed to building and restoring the dignity of Kenyans as well as protecting our human rights,” signalling a platform centred on governance reforms and civic empowerment.

The back-to-back resignations have sparked concern within Gachagua’s inner circle about the party’s preparedness and ability to run credible campaigns.

President William Ruto described Linda Jamii as an evolution of Linda Mama, designed to include prenatal, delivery, postnatal care, and support for not just mothers but also spouses and children.

Although he expressed respect for the party leader’s “unwavering commitment” to DCP’s ideals, Ngumbao accused the party's national elections board and the secretary-general of failing to uphold inclusivity and accountability

Simon Mutua believes registering to vote is the first step toward fixing the problems in his neighbourhood, where poor roads and inadequate sanitation remain pressing concerns.

IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has previously said the registration drive aims to expand Kenya’s voter base from the current 22.1 million to include an estimated 6.3 million new voters.

Through his address, Uhuru Kenyatta painted a picture of a country whose development gains are under threat, urging political focus, accountability, and reforms as essential steps to restore progress for Kenyans.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who has unsuccessfully run for the presidency five times, has been cautious about revealing his plans for 2027.

Karua’s remarks echoed the core philosophy of the PLP, which was quietly formed in 2022 and describes itself as a movement of ordinary Kenyans determined to break from tribal politics and political dynasties.

Uhuru Kenyatta revealed that in the aftermath of the elections, he, his family, and political allies were subjected to threats from unnamed sources.

The poll shows that despite efforts to present the coalition as a unifying force, scepticism remains high among citizens across the country.

Despite UDA’s lead, the survey shows that support for the ruling party is less than half the proportion of Kenyans who do not identify with any political party, standing at 31 per cent.