The ODM Disability League has officially declared its support for President William Ruto’s campaign for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on August 12, 2026, at Mama Grace Onyango Social Hall in Kisumu, the league's national president, Nickson Kakiri, emphasized the need for persons with disabilities to move beyond being mere voters and actively participate in political and governmental decision-making.
Support for Ruto’s Re-election
Kakiri revealed that the league has resolved to back President Ruto’s two-term bid and has begun mobilizing persons with disabilities at the grassroots level across Kenya.
“We will stand with the President for two terms,” Kakiri affirmed, highlighting plans to consolidate members from various disability organizations to strengthen the league’s structures ahead of the elections.
He further requested a direct meeting between President Ruto and representatives of persons with disabilities to discuss their concerns and political stance.
Kakiri pointed to the significant electoral influence of persons with disabilities, estimating about 6.7 million registered voters within this group. “6.7 million votes is not a number to be taken lightly,” he noted.
Calls for Greater Political Inclusion
Siaya MCA Andrew Omwende, who also chairs the ODM Disability League in Siaya, supported the call for enhanced participation of persons with disabilities in party affairs.
Omwende stressed that strengthening the league would provide a platform for members to raise pertinent issues and engage more effectively in political processes.
He urged President Ruto to invite disability representatives to State House for direct dialogue, emphasizing the legitimacy and value of their votes. “These votes are not disabled. These votes are also genuinely valid like the others,” Omwende stated.
Charles Otieno from Kisumu East Sub-County added that efforts would focus on reinforcing the league’s presence at ward and grassroots levels, encouraging members to engage local political leaders and advocate for development programs targeting persons with disabilities.
Grassroots Mobilization Underway
Linet Arega from Seme Sub-County, a person with disability herself, highlighted the importance of a stronger voice in local political and development initiatives.
The league’s grassroots mobilization aims to empower members to actively participate in community decisions and influence development agendas.
As political parties and interest groups position themselves for the 2027 elections, the ODM Disability League continues to organize nationwide membership while seeking direct engagement with the President.
The league’s stance combines firm support for President Ruto’s two-term bid with a clear call for increased political inclusion and development planning for persons with disabilities.
