ODM leader Oburu Oginga has defended his party's decision to work with President William Ruto's administration, stating that the arrangement is deliberate and backed by negotiations. Speaking virtually at Jacaranda Grounds in Nairobi during the closing rally of Mwezi wa Baba, Oburu emphasized that ODM is not participating in the broad-based government without clear objectives and structures. He made it clear that the party is not in the government blindly, but rather consciously and with a clear understanding of their goals.
Oburu distinguished between a broad-based government and a coalition government, arguing that they operate differently and require distinct approaches to negotiations. He stated that ODM is negotiating in accordance with the country's laws and statutes. The ODM leader disclosed that the party has appointed five members to a technical team working on constitutional and policy issues relating to the arrangement. This team will focus on key issues that will guide ODM's engagement with the ruling coalition.
A separate coalition team will be established before February next year, with members appointed by both ODM and Ruto's side. Oburu said that this coalition team will be responsible for further negotiations and will be jointly appointed by his team and that of the President. The establishment of these teams demonstrates ODM's commitment to a structured and transparent approach to their involvement in the government.
Oburu's remarks come amid political debate within ODM over its relationship with the ruling administration and the party's direction ahead of the 2027 polls. Some party members have been questioning the wisdom of working with President Ruto's administration, but Oburu remains firm in his stance. He emphasized that ODM's involvement in the government is a deliberate decision aimed at promoting the party's interests and advancing the country's development.
The rally marked the final day of the month-long activities held in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whom Oburu described as a national leader and a central figure in ODM's history. Oburu said that the party has a particular reason to celebrate Raila because of his leadership and role in its formation and growth. He praised Raila's commitment to fighting oppression and promoting justice.
Oburu also warned party members against publicly taking positions that contradict official party policy, calling for discipline as ODM prepares for the next election. He urged members to be loyal to the party and its policies, emphasizing that this is crucial for the party's success in the 2027 General Election. Oburu's call for discipline reflects the party's efforts to present a united front ahead of the polls.
The ODM leader concluded by thanking Kenyans who had sent messages wishing him a quick recovery following his recent illness. He expressed his gratitude for the support and hoped to resume political activities soon. Oburu asserted ODM's political strength, stating that his party is one of the biggest in the country, and urged supporters to continue pursuing freedom and development.
Key points
- ODM's involvement in President Ruto's government is deliberate and guided by clear objectives and structures.
- Oburu distinguishes between a broad-based government and a coalition government, highlighting their different operational frameworks.
- ODM has established teams to negotiate and guide its engagement with the ruling coalition, demonstrating a structured approach to its involvement in the government.
