On October 31, 2026, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party Leader Oburu Oginga addressed supporters virtually, dismissing claims that the party had joined President William Ruto's administration unconditionally. Oburu asserted that ODM's participation in the broad-based government is intentional and strategic, guided by structured negotiations ahead of the 2027 General Election. He emphasized that the party is not in the government blindly, but rather consciously and with a clear understanding of their actions.
Oburu clarified the operational distinction between their current alignment and a formal political partnership, noting that a broad-based government operates under a different framework than a structured coalition. He revealed that the party has appointed a five-member technical team to handle ongoing policy and constitutional frameworks, ensuring their engagement is within legal and statutory boundaries.
A dedicated coalition negotiation team, jointly appointed by ODM and President Ruto's camp, will be established before February 2027 to chart the formal way forward. Oburu explained that this team will be different from the technical team, and its establishment is part of the party's efforts to manage the engagement within legal and statutory boundaries.
Oburu addressed public friction among party leaders regarding whether to back President Ruto's reelection conditionally or unconditionally, calling for party discipline and warning members against making statements that contradict official party policy. He urged members to be disciplined and follow the policies of the party as they move towards the 2027 General Election.
The rally, which concluded the month-long Mwezi wa Baba events, honored the legacy of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Oburu praised his late brother's lifelong fight against oppression, describing ODM as one of the most powerful political movements in Africa. The event brought together key ODM and government figures, including Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.
Oburu also thanked Kenyans for their prayers and quick recovery wishes during his recent illness, expressing confidence in the party's direction. The Jacaranda Grounds event was attended by notable figures, including Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed.
As the 2027 General Election approaches, Oburu's address aims to quell internal dissent and solidify the party's stance on their participation in the broad-based government. With a clear strategy in place, ODM is positioning itself for the upcoming election, and Oburu's leadership will be crucial in navigating the party's role in the government.
Key points
- ODM's participation in the broad-based government is intentional and strategic, guided by structured negotiations ahead of the 2027 General Election.
- A dedicated coalition negotiation team will be established before February 2027 to chart the formal way forward.
- Oburu called for party discipline and warned members against making statements that contradict official party policy.
