ODM Party Leader Oburu Odinga has dismissed speculation of internal purges within the party, saying there are no plans to expel members for holding views that differ from the party’s official position, as ODM intensifies preparations for the 2027 General Election.
Speaking at a rally at Kamukunji grounds in Kibera on Wednesday, Oburu said his priority is to strengthen the party and maintain unity to enhance its bargaining power in future coalition negotiations with other like-minded political outfits.
“There are no plans to expel any member from the party for holding divergent views from the stand taken,” Oburu told supporters, stressing that ODM’s focus is on cohesion rather than punishment.
He said the party remains firmly committed to the Broad-based Government arrangement, describing it as an agreement that remains in force until 2027.
Oburu added that ODM will soon begin structured engagements with other political parties as part of its coalition-building strategy ahead of the next election.
According to the party leader, the engagement process will start with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), with which ODM currently has a broad-based political arrangement.
He said these talks are aimed at shaping a coalition capable of mounting a strong challenge in the 2027 polls.
Oburu also announced plans to embark on countrywide tours to meet party officials and delegates, saying the consultations will focus on strengthening ODM structures and gathering views on key political and organisational issues.
He expressed confidence that ODM will enter the 2027 General Election as a united party, insisting that internal diversity of opinion would not derail its broader political objectives.
The rally came against the backdrop of early morning demolitions of structures along the railway line in parts of Kibera and Lang’ata.
Kenya Railways has said the demolitions are meant to pave the way for the construction of a railway line linking Nyayo National Stadium and the Raila Odinga International Stadium, also known as Talanta Stadium, along Ngong Road.
Addressing the issue, Oburu sympathised with residents affected by the demolitions and said he would engage the government to seek compensation in order to prevent tension and resentment.
“I will ask the government to compensate those affected to avoid acrimony,” he said, announcing that he had contributed Sh3 million to support families displaced by the demolitions.
The rally was also attended by senior ODM leaders, including Deputy Party Leaders Abdulswamad Nassir and Simba Arati, National Chairperson Gladys Wanga, Nairobi ODM Chairman Hamed Aliwa Aladwa, Members of Parliament, Members of County Assembly, and party officials from all 17 ODM branches in Nairobi.
