Nairobi: Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders in Kericho have backed President William Samoei Ruto’s development agenda, expressing their readiness to welcome him to work with his administration in the spirit of a broad-based government arrangement.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kericho County ODM Chair Ann Chepkwony stated that the party appreciates national government projects, including affordable housing, modern markets, stadiums, the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), roads, and other infrastructure initiatives, as they are driving county growth and creating opportunities for residents. Chepkwony emphasized the ODM leadership’s appreciation for the President’s willingness to work across political lines, noting that the broad-based government has provided a platform for leaders from different parties to contribute to the country’s development agenda.
Chepkwony expressed that ODM members in Kericho are prepared to collaborate with the administration under this broad-based arrangement, supporting projects that enhance residents’ lives and promote the county’s development. She also advocated for greater inclusion of ODM members in the county’s development programs, suggesting that recognition and participation would strengthen cooperation and allow more residents to benefit from the opportunities created through the broad-based government.
Continuing, Chepkwony urged residents to view the President’s engagement with Kericho as an opportunity to strengthen dialogue between political leaders and the community, pointing out that continued consultation would help identify local priorities and ensure development efforts align with the needs of residents. She assured the President of ODM’s support through to the next General Election in August 2027, declaring their commitment to work with UDA and encouraging the President to pursue a two-term agenda.
Meanwhile, ODM Kipkelion West Sub-County Branch Chair Zablon Cheruiyot expressed anticipation for the President’s development efforts and his engagement with Kericho residents during his expected visit. He acknowledged Kericho as traditionally a UDA stronghold but reiterated that ODM remains an active political presence in the county, urging the President to extend goodwill towards ODM members similar to the late Raila Odinga’s approach.
The call for inclusivity was supported by Wilfred Kurgat, Kericho County ODM Organising Secretary, who endorsed the broad-based government arrangement and urged its spirit be felt beyond the national level. Kurgat advocated for stronger engagement between ODM and UDA leaders to deepen cooperation, suggesting that ODM members would feel more included if opportunities and recognition were extended at the county level.
The leaders further expressed their willingness to support President Ruto’s re-election bid in the 2027 General Election, emphasizing that their support spans from party leadership to grassroots members. Among the issues they want addressed are the completion of key local projects, such as the Kericho Green Stadium and Kerenga Airport, which they believe could further contribute to the county’s development.
Additionally, ODM member Vincent Korir called for greater attention to Kericho’s environment and water resources. He urged the President to strengthen efforts through agencies like the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Water Resources Authority (WRA) to protect the county’s natural resources.
