Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Dr Oburu Oginga has declared that the party will not be overshadowed within the broad-based political arrangement with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), pledging to defend its political base and expand its influence ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on Monday during the Nairobi ODM youth forum, Dr Oginga sought to reassure party members amid growing concerns over ODM’s cooperation with President William Ruto’s ruling party.
“As ODM, we cannot be swallowed. If you try to swallow ODM, your stomach will burst,” Oburu said.
His remarks come against the backdrop of increasing tensions within the broad-based government, with ODM leaders emphasising the party’s independence and warning against any attempts to weaken its structures.
National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed underscored that the arrangement between ODM and UDA does not amount to a merger, insisting that ODM remains the primary political vehicle for its supporters.
“Broad-based is not a party. The party is ODM. Even if someone wants our support, they must go through our party ODM,” Junet said.
Dr Oginga further revealed that ODM is planning nationwide “meet the people” tours across 25 counties as part of efforts to consolidate support and grow its numbers ahead of the next polls. He expressed confidence that the party would not only retain its current seats but also significantly increase its representation.
- ODM threatens to quit Ruto pact ahead of 2027 elections
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ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga echoed the sentiment, affirming that the party will field candidates across all elective positions in 2027.
“We will have candidates everywhere, from governor, senate, woman representative- all will be ODM,” Wanga said.
Makadara MP George Aladwa also maintained that key positions in Nairobi would remain under ODM, urging aspirants to seek leadership through the party.
On the other hand, UDA Deputy Secretary General Catherine Omanyo dismissed concerns over zoning arrangements, stating that the ruling party remains unfazed regardless of the outcome.
Meanwhile, ODM leaders took issue with remarks from UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar, with deputy party leader Simba Arati urging him to tone down his statements.
Cabinet Secretary for Mining Hassan Joho reaffirmed his allegiance to ODM, while deputy party leader Abdulswad Sheriff Nassir stressed that no individual is greater than the party.
During the same forum, Dr Oginga also threatened legal action against Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua over allegations that he had been influenced to relinquish ODM’s position.
“There is someone who said Oburu was bought. I will take him to court to explain. I cannot be bought,” he said.
The developments highlight growing political manoeuvring with the broad-based government, as parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.
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