He said it helps parties avoid unnecessary competition in stronghold areas and allows them to focus on shared national goals.
Without zoning, he warned, ODM supporters would see negotiations as dishonest and one-sided.
Kaluma noted that ODM has a clear support base in several regions, especially in Nyanza.
He said it would not make sense for ODM to negotiate with UDA while at the same time allowing UDA to field candidates in areas traditionally held by ODM.
In his view, that would weaken ODM and confuse voters who have remained loyal to the party for decades.
The Homa Bay MP added that zoning is about respect, not fear.
He said ODM is not afraid of competition, but believes political agreements should be clear and fair.
“You cannot shake hands with one hand and fight with the other,” Kaluma said, insisting that trust is key in any negotiation.
He also reminded UDA that past political coalitions in Kenya have succeeded when zoning was clearly agreed upon and followed.
Kaluma pointed out that when parties fail to respect such agreements, coalitions collapse, leading to mistrust and political instability.
Kaluma further said that ODM’s goal is to protect the voice of its supporters.
He argued that voters must feel that their party is negotiating from a position of strength and dignity, not desperation.
If zoning is ignored, he warned, ODM members may reject any deal reached with UDA.