Siaya County, Kenya — Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Oginga has openly challenged individuals seeking to rival him for the party’s top leadership position, declaring that he is ready to face them in a National Delegates Convention (NDC) and defeat them decisively.
Speaking during the burial of his uncle’s wife in Alego Usonga Constituency, Siaya County, Oburu dismissed claims questioning the legitimacy of his leadership and said the party should proceed to formal elections if critics believe there is a leadership vacuum.
“But those who are saying that Oburu is not validly elected, I challenge them. If they say it’s NDC, let us go with them to NDC. I will call it very soon,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing calls from a section of youthful ODM leaders who have demanded internal party elections following the death of long-time party leader Raila Odinga. The group has argued that fresh leadership is necessary to reposition the party ahead of future political contests.
ODM’s Political Direction and 2027 Outlook
Oburu also used the occasion to outline ODM’s strategic options ahead of the 2027 general election, stating that 2026 would be a decisive year for political negotiations and alliances.
“2026 is the year of negotiations for any arrangements. Either we are going in partnership with the UDA or any other party, or we are going alone as ODM,” he said. “And if it’s the latter, Oburu Oginga is the presidential candidate.”
The statement signals Oburu’s readiness to position ODM as either a coalition partner or an independent political force, depending on the outcome of negotiations.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi moved to quell speculation over leadership uncertainty within the party, insisting that ODM’s leadership structures remain intact and legitimate.
“The matter of ODM party leadership was settled at the National Governing Council (NGC), acting on behalf of the NDC,” Wandayi said. “Anybody imagining that there is a vacuum in ODM leadership is daydreaming. It cannot be that unless you are the one leading, nothing can happen. Who are you?”
As internal debate continues, ODM faces increasing pressure to clarify its leadership framework and political direction, with party unity and strategic coherence likely to be central issues in the run-up to the next election cycle.
