ODM Keeps 2027 Options Open as Oburu Oginga Refuses to Commit to Ruto Alliance

Party leader announces grassroots consultations will determine whether ODM backs President Ruto or fields independent candidates in next election

Siaya Senator and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Oginga has delivered a politically explosive revelation: ODM has not yet decided whether it will back President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election or field its own candidates against the incumbent.

Speaking at the late Cyrus Jirongo’s home in Lugari, Oburu emphasized that ODM will first consult its members to determine a clear political direction, signaling that the party refuses to be taken for granted despite its current participation in Ruto’s broad-based government.

“I Am Nothing Without You,” Oburu Tells ODM Grassroots

The ODM leader stressed that collective decisions, not individual ambitions, will guide the party’s 2027 strategy, delivering a message clearly aimed at quelling speculation about predetermined political deals.

“I am nothing without you. You are the ones who make me party leader. I cannot claim to know everything, which is why we must consult our people. Once we agree on party policy, everyone must speak the same language,” Oburu declared.

Oburu underscored that ODM’s strength lies in the party as a whole, not in individual leaders, noting that the focus remains on building a cohesive and robust organization ahead of 2027.

“The importance is the party and not about me, as Oburu. We are building a 10-point agenda that will guide us up to 2027,” he explained.

ODM Prioritizes Structure Over Premature Political Commitments

Oburu further highlighted that ODM’s immediate priority involves strengthening its structure, expanding membership, attracting new supporters, and increasing its influence ahead of the next general election.

The Siaya Senator added that ODM will make its final decision closer to the 2027 election on whether to run independently or enter into a “negotiated arrangement” with the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition.

“When 2027 comes, we will either go into the election as ODM on our own or work with others we are currently together with in government. Any support will be through a negotiated arrangement that fully involves ODM,” he stated, leaving all options strategically open.

Sifuna Draws Hard Line on Accountability and Justice

ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna also weighed in with a defiant message, noting that young party leaders remain prepared to take on the responsibility of advocating for accountability and justice, core ODM principles that cannot be compromised for political convenience.

“I said it doesn’t matter if you haven’t built roads, but if we are living in fear, we don’t want those roads,” Sifuna declared.

The ODM Secretary-General added a pointed warning to those expecting the party to abandon its oversight role: “But I want to say this, there is no one who will remove me from the truth, and no one can silence me. Even if Cyrus has gone quiet, we will still hear his voice through justice being done.”

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