The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has suspended all coalition talks with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2027 General Election, in a move that has rattled Kenya’s political scene and cast doubt over the future of their working relationship.

The decision was reached after a tense seven-hour meeting by ODM’s Central Management Committee, with party leaders saying the pause is necessary to refocus and strengthen the party internally.

Acting Secretary General Catherine Omanyo did not hold back, accusing elements within UDA of undermining ODM’s stability. “We demand respect from the UDA party,” she said. “There have been deliberate efforts to weaken ODM by targeting our members and leaders.”

ODM has also directed its members to halt any campaigns supporting President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid until the standoff is resolved. “Our priority now is to consolidate our base and protect the integrity of the party,” Omanyo added.

At the center of the dispute is the contentious issue of zoning, with ODM pushing for an agreement that would prevent UDA from fielding candidates in its traditional strongholds. The party is also seeking the Deputy President position in any future coalition arrangement,demands that UDA has resisted.

“The lack of consensus on key principles like zoning and power-sharing is what has led us here,” a senior ODM official said. “We cannot move forward without clear and mutual respect.”

In a bid to ease tensions, ODM leader Oburu Oginga, alongside party heavyweights Gladys Wanga and Simba Arati, is expected to seek an urgent meeting with President Ruto. “Dialogue remains open, but it must be based on honesty and respect,” Oginga noted.

Meanwhile, ODM is turning inward, planning a series of nationwide youth conventions and grassroots mobilization efforts aimed at rebuilding its support base. “We are going back to the people,” said Wanga. “This is about reconnecting with our roots and reaffirming who we are.”

The suspension comes just weeks after both parties had agreed to form a joint team to steer coalition talks, making the fallout even more striking.

Political analysts say the growing mistrust could signal a major realignment ahead of 2027. “This is no longer a minor disagreement, it’s a test of whether this partnership can survive,” one observer noted.

As the political temperature continues to rise, the big question remains: will ODM and UDA find common ground, or is Kenya headed for a fresh political shake-up?