Mombasa

Nassir Urges ODM to Formalize Coalition with UDA Ahead of 2027 Polls

By Feddy Madebe
Monday, December 29, 2025

MOMBASA – Mombasa Governor and Orange Democratic Movement Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Sharrif Nassir has called on his colleagues within ODM to consider formalizing a pre-election coalition with the United Democratic Alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement released on Monday, Governor Nassir framed his position as a pragmatic response to the current political landscape, emphasizing the need for strategic engagement over confrontation.

ALSO READ: African Union Opposes Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland as Sovereign State

“Leadership sometimes requires making hard, pragmatic choices guided by a clear reading of reality,” Nassir stated. “This position is informed by a sober assessment of the political terrain, the balance of forces, and the pathways available to protect our interests and advance our agenda.”

The Governor’s call comes as political parties begin positioning themselves for the 2027 electoral cycle. Nassir argued that ODM must prioritize strategic alliances that serve the party’s long-term interests.

Strategic Engagement Over Sentiment

Nassir emphasized that beyond implementing the 10-Point Agenda, political decisions must be guided by practical considerations rather than emotions.

“Politics is about choices. We must choose engagement over perpetual confrontation, strategy over sentiment, and outcomes over slogans,” he said.

The Deputy Party Leader defended the proposed coalition by contrasting potential partners, stating that ODM should work with those who have shown “respect and tolerance” rather than align with entities that have demonstrated “contempt and discrimination,” which he characterized as “shareholding” politics.

Call for Clarity and Courage

In his statement, Governor Nassir urged party colleagues to approach the coalition discussion in good faith, emphasizing the need for decisive leadership.

“This is what leadership demands: clarity, courage, and the discipline to act in the long-term interest of our people and our party,” he concluded.

The proposal is expected to spark debate within ODM ranks as the party weighs its options for the upcoming electoral contest. It remains to be seen how other party leaders will respond to Nassir’s call for coalition formalization with UDA.