NAIROBI — Oburu Oginga, leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has declared that he will be the party’s presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election if ODM decides to contest the race independently, a statement that underscores ongoing strategic discussions within the party as it prepares for the next polls.
What Oburu Actually Said
In a New Year address, Oburu — also the Senator for Siaya County and acting party leader- stated that ODM’s constitution designates the party leader as its automatic presidential flagbearer if the party runs alone.
He stressed that anyone else hoping to run for president under ODM would be “misplaced” unless the party changes course or enters a coalition.
Oburu affirmed that 2026 will be a crucial year for the party to finalise its strategy, including whether it will contest solo or form alliances with other political parties before the polls.
Why This Matters
Oburu’s statement comes amid ongoing discussions over ODM’s direction ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party has been in a broad‑based arrangement with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration, an arrangement agreed upon after the death of its founder, Raila Odinga.
However, this partnership has sparked debate among members about whether ODM should instead contest the presidency independently or as part of a coalition.
By invoking the party constitution, Oburu is signalling that, if ODM chooses to stand alone in the election, he believes his leadership position already makes him the default candidate- thereby discouraging internal rivals from seeking the nomination within the party.
Internal Party Dynamics
Oburu’s comments also reflect internal debates within ODM.
Some members support close cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza government, while others believe remaining aligned could dilute the party’s identity and electoral strength.
There have been public discussions and criticism from within the party over how Oburu’s statements are reported and interpreted, indicating a debate over messaging and leadership direction.
For example, the ODM youth leader criticised some media coverage for misrepresenting the constitutional basis of Oburu’s declaration.
What Happens Next
ODM has not yet made a formal decision on whether to run independently or join a coalition for 2027.
Oburu has said the matter will be settled before the end of 2026, when the party concludes consultations and elects a clear strategy.
If ODM ultimately chooses a coalition path, Oburu’s automatic candidacy could be waived in favour of a negotiated candidate from partner parties.
However, if the party goes it alone, his statement suggests he expects to be the flagbearer without a contested national primary inside ODM.
Implications for National Politics
Oburu’s assertion also feeds into the broader national conversation around the 2027 election dynamics.
With President William Ruto seeking re‑election and other parties also positioning themselves, ODM’s strategy — whether independent or in coalition — will be a key factor shaping electoral alignments and voter choices.
