Sakaja flags off 24 new garbage trucks, unveils plan for Green Nairobi Company
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja unveiled 24 new refuse compactor trucks at City Hall on Thursday as part of efforts to enhance waste management across the city.
Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda has hinted that President William Ruto might select a running mate from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party as part of a potential coalition agreement for the 2027 elections.
Speaking on Daybreak, the senator stated that both the ruling government and the opposition could establish a framework to guide the coalition’s structure.
Ojienda emphasized that ODM's support for President Ruto's re-election bid would be a decisive factor in the presidential race.
“ODM will support President Ruto for a second term. On February 28, 2025, he will assume the role of AUC chairperson and head to Addis Ababa. I will remain here with the SG. ODM will play a significant role,” Ojienda said.
“The coalition agreement may include the possibility of having a deputy president from ODM.”
The senator also speculated that other parties could join the coalition as the elections approach, hinting that Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka might collaborate with the government.
“Wiper is seeking partnerships. Don’t be surprised if, in a few months, Kalonzo joins the government,” he added.
However, Ojienda’s remarks drew criticism from ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, who clarified that ODM’s position on coalition matters is determined solely by party leader Raila Odinga.
Sifuna noted that Raila, who is preparing to take on the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship next month, had left clear instructions for ODM to maintain its identity.
He further criticized the ruling government, arguing that its policies over the past two years had made it increasingly unpopular, and a coalition with ODM would not remedy the situation.
“If you want to know ODM’s stance on coalitions, listen to Raila Odinga. He left explicit instructions: first, ODM must retain its identity; second, we have not abandoned our quest for power. Otherwise, we might as well dissolve the party,” Sifuna said.
“We are celebrating 20 years as a party. In every election, we have fielded a candidate. While members are free to express their opinions, it is the party leader who articulates the official position.”
Sifuna confirmed that ODM has not entered into any agreement with the ruling government regarding 2027 elections, despite statements made by other party members.
“I have not signed any agreement, and there is no pact between ODM and UDA for 2027. If a government is unpopular, it doesn’t matter how many leaders it rallies; they will still lose the election,” he concluded.
