NAIROBI, Kenya — ODM party leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has said that the year 2026 will be crucial for the party in determining its strategy ahead of the 2027 general election.
In a New Year statement, Oburu said the ODM Party constitution allows only the party leader to vie for the presidency.
He added that if ODM decides to contest alone in 2027, Oburu will be the party’s presidential candidate.
“2026 is the year the ODM party is going to make serious decisions regarding the 2027 elections,” Oburu said.
“Negotiations must happen this year to ensure we position the party strongly for the future.”
It has been a year of profound loss for Kenya and ODM in particular when we lost our party leader Raila Amolo Odinga. As ODM we are united to forge ahead and emerge stronger. ODM is a party of Institutions and structures. 2026 is the year the ODM party is going to make serious
Negotiations and Possible Alliances
Oburu indicated that ODM is exploring strategic options ahead of the 2027 elections, including potential alliances.
The party is expected to work with President William Ruto in his re-election bid while also negotiating for key positions such as the running mate slot and other top government posts.
Focus on Party Unity and Constitution
Oburu emphasised that the party constitution is clear on leadership succession and candidacy, a signal aimed at quelling speculation about internal divisions or potential presidential ambitions by other ODM figures.
“I am the Presidential candidate for ODM if the party decides to go it alone. Anybody who is preparing to go for the presidential election in ODM is misplaced. If they want to go for presidential candidacy, they should look for another party,” he said.
Oburu also dismissed claims that the Party had been sold to any party.
“I don’t think there is anybody in Kenya who can afford ODM in Kenya,” he said. “Whom are you paying and how much are you paying? This party is not for sale.”
He said the party will continue internal consultations throughout 2026, preparing a strategy that ensures both national relevance and strong negotiating leverage ahead of the polls.
“This is the year that we must work very hard as a party and make sure that we make the decision which are necessary to keep our party up and about,” he said.
