University and college student leaders from Mombasa and Kilifi counties have thrown their weight behind the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership and the broad-based government arrangement between President William Ruto and ODM, signaling a strong youth alignment with the political pact ahead of 2027.

Speaking on February 8, 2026 during a meeting in Mvita Sub-County, Technical University of Mombasa Students’ President Odiero Peter accused unnamed actors within and outside ODM of plotting to weaken the party, warning that the youth would not tolerate attempts to destabilize ODM’s structures.

“We will not allow schemes aimed at scattering ODM or sabotaging the broad-based government,” Odiero said, adding that the student movement would defend ODM leadership under Dr. Oburu Oginga and the broader coalition framework.

The student leaders went further to publicly endorse ongoing political engagement between ODM and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), declaring support for President Ruto’s re-election bid in the 2027 General Elections.

They argued that the broad-based government has delivered peace, stability and economic gains, dismissing renewed calls for street protests as reckless.

“As young people, we have chosen progress over chaos. We will not return to destruction and unrest,” said Yoth, noting that youth would instead pursue dialogue, inclusion and structured engagement in governance.

Peter Ochieng said Coast students were firmly behind ODM leadership and President Ruto’s administration, citing improved infrastructure and service delivery as evidence of tangible progress.

Brian Oburu, speaking for the youth, warned against internal divisions and emerging splinter groups within ODM, urging unity ahead of 2027.

“We must speak with one voice. Fragmentation weakens real change,” he said.

The declaration marks a rare public alignment by Coast student leaders with the Ruto–ODM political pact, potentially reshaping youth political dynamics in the region as the 2027 race gathers momentum.