Homa Bay Town MP Peter Opondo Kaluma has mounted a strong defence of political zoning, insisting that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) must retain exclusive control of its traditional support bases, including Luo Nyanza, in any future coalition agreements.
In a detailed statement, Kaluma argued that zoning is a common feature in established democracies, citing examples from the United States and Europe where political parties maintain defined areas of influence.
He noted that similar trends are evident across Africa, where dominant parties consolidate support in specific regions to strengthen their electoral prospects.
Drawing from Kenya’s political history, Kaluma referenced past coalitions involving Orange Democratic Movement, FORD-Kenya and Wiper Democratic Movement under alliances such as CORD Coalition, NASA Coalition and Azimio la Umoja–One Kenya Coalition.
He said that despite forming joint fronts, parties maintained distinct regional strongholds, a strategy he believes is critical for electoral success.
According to the legislator, coalition politics requires parties to secure a significant number of parliamentary seats to effectively govern.
He warned that a coalition lacking sufficient representation in Parliament risks legislative paralysis, including failure to pass budgets, approve Cabinet appointments, or shield its leadership from potential impeachment.
Kaluma emphasized that political parties enter coalitions not only to win elections but also to protect their institutional interests.
He pointed out that ODM prioritises issues such as devolution, inclusivity and human rights, which he said can only be safeguarded if the party maintains strong representation in elected positions.
He declared that ODM would only engage in pre-election coalition negotiations with partners who recognise and respect its strongholds.
“Our coalition partners must keep off our zones before and after elections. This is non-negotiable,” Kaluma stated, warning that any party unwilling to accept zoning should reconsider partnership talks.
The MP also appeared to direct his remarks at the ruling United Democratic Alliance, cautioning against political interference in ODM-dominated regions.
He accused rival campaigns of attempting to confuse voters in Luo Nyanza, a move he said undermines party stability.
Kaluma further reiterated ODM’s long-term political strategy, affirming that the party will field a presidential candidate in future elections regardless of coalition arrangements.
He named Oburu Oginga as the party’s current presidential flagbearer.
His remarks come amid ongoing debate over zoning within opposition ranks, with critics arguing that the approach undermines democratic competition, while supporters view it as a pragmatic strategy to consolidate political strength ahead of national elections.