ODM leader Oburu Odinga has assured party supporters that the Orange Democratic Movement will provide a clear political direction and strategy by mid-2026, as the party intensifies preparations for the 2027 General Election.
Speaking in Ugunja on Tuesday during interdenominational prayers hosted at Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi’s residence, Oburu emphasized the importance of early planning to ensure ODM is ready for critical political negotiations.
“The next election is being prepared now. In 2026, it will not reach six months before we give our people direction on where we are going,” he stated, signaling the party’s proactive approach to the forthcoming polls.
Oburu urged ODM members to remain united and support his leadership, noting that the party’s strength comes from solidarity and active participation.
“When systems are being made in this country, you must have a strong political party. Even when you go to negotiations with a weak party, you will be tossed left, right and centre,” he said, underlining the value of organizational cohesion.
Reflecting on ODM’s involvement in the current broad-based government, Oburu clarified that the party joined by invitation rather than being part of its formation, highlighting that the decision was a strategic political judgment.
“Raila left us in a broad-based government that we were invited into. We saw that President William Ruto was better than former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua,” he explained.
On the issue of the next presidential contest, Oburu said ODM has yet to take an official stance. “As of now, I cannot say what people are saying out there about one term or two terms. What I know is that we will go to the negotiation table at the right time,” he added.
He encouraged supporters to strengthen the party from the grassroots by registering as members, acquiring national identity cards and voter registration cards, and participating actively during elections. “When we strengthen our party and reach negotiation time, it will find us ready and prepared to be part of the formation of the next government,” he said.
Oburu also called on supporters to back ODM leaders serving in government, noting that such support would boost the party’s bargaining power. Reaffirming his commitment to lead the party after Raila Odinga’s death, he said, “That responsibility has not defeated me. I am holding that mantle firmly,” and urged members to maintain unity and focus.
The prayers drew numerous political figures, including Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, Senator Moses Kajwang, MPs Moses Omondi, Elisha Odhiambo, Tom Odege, Peter Masara, Peter Orero, Gideon Ochanda, Adipo Okuome, Paul Abour, Jared Okello, David Ochieng, and Siaya leaders Christine Ombaka and Joyce Osogo, alongside several county assembly members.
