The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has authorized President William Ruto to initiate negotiations with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to form a formal coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, following a mutual commitment by both parties to strengthen political cooperation.

• UDA's National Executive Committee (NEC) made the decision during its meeting after being briefed on recent grassroots elections across 20 counties.
• President Ruto stated the objective is "to strengthen the ongoing political partnership, support stable governance, and lay the foundation for a formal coalition arrangement."
• The move comes after ODM's Central Committee announced plans for structured negotiations with other political formations, including UDA, on January 12.
• Both parties have been collaborating under the Kenya Kwanza Coalition, notably in adopting the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) 10-point agenda report of 2024.
• UDA's recent grassroots elections saw 492,439 candidates contest for 231,770 seats, with 2.4 million party members participating; of those elected, 56% were male, 44% female, and 33% youth.