The “Shares” narrative, originally promoted by Gachagua, likened the Kenya Kwanza administration to a company with shareholders. He argued that those who supported President William Ruto, particularly in the Mount Kenya region, should receive the primary benefits of government positions and development projects. Key elements included the “sowed and reaped” logic and regional prioritization, with Mount Kenya positioned as the first to benefit.
Sifuna, however, suggested that by taking over this discourse, ODM is now implicitly being tribal, signaling a focus on securing shares of government for certain regions and communities. He acknowledged that the party must balance its ambition with inclusivity to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past.
Gachagua had previously defended his remarks as being under pressure from his community to honor a “gentleman’s agreement” granting them a 40% share of government. He later claimed his statements were misinterpreted, insisting he intended to support the government agenda rather than exclude any region.
By adopting the narrative, ODM seeks to redefine it while addressing concerns of tribal bias, positioning itself as a party that highlights representation and participation across Kenya. The move signals a strategic effort to appeal to voters nationwide ahead of the 2027 elections.