Speaking during a gathering at the home of the late businessman and politician Cyrus Jirongo in Lugari, Oburu said ODM would not be rushed into political commitments and would instead rely on broad consultations with its grassroots supporters to determine its next course. His remarks signal growing caution within the party despite ODM’s current participation in President Ruto’s broad-based government.
Oburu emphasized that ODM’s future direction will be shaped by collective decision-making rather than elite negotiations, pushing back against speculation that the party has already struck a deal with the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition.
“I am nothing without you,” Oburu told supporters. “You are the ones who make me party leader. I cannot pretend to know everything. That is why we must consult our people, and once we agree on party policy, everyone must speak with one voice.”
The Siaya Senator stressed that the party’s immediate focus is not on alliances but on strengthening its internal foundations. He said ODM is prioritizing the expansion of its membership, revitalization of grassroots structures, and the development of a clear policy framework to guide it through to 2027. According to Oburu, the party is currently crafting a 10-point agenda aimed at unifying members and sharpening its political identity.
Oburu noted that ODM’s involvement in government should not be mistaken for political surrender. He said the party would make a final determination closer to the election on whether to contest independently or enter into a negotiated political arrangement with other parties, including those currently aligned with the government.
“When 2027 comes, we will either go into the election as ODM on our own or work with others we are together with in government,” he said, adding that any cooperation would only occur through a formal and transparent agreement that safeguards the party’s interests.
ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna reinforced the party’s stance, insisting that participation in government does not absolve it of its responsibility to demand accountability and justice. He warned against development that comes at the expense of freedom and security.
Sifuna said ODM leaders, particularly younger ones, remain committed to speaking out against fear, injustice, and abuse of power, regardless of political convenience.
The remarks underscore ODM’s effort to recalibrate its position in the post–Raila Odinga era, keeping its 2027 options open while seeking to maintain unity, relevance, and leverage in an increasingly fluid political landscape.