KISUMU, Kenya — Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Oginga has assured Deputy President Kithure Kindiki that the party is not seeking his position as it opens negotiations with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on Monday during the launch of the NYOTA youth empowerment programme in Kisumu, Siaya, and Homa Bay counties, Oburu said ODM’s engagement with UDA is driven by national interest, not personal ambition.
“Let me make it very clear to my brother, the Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, that ODM is not after his job,” Oburu said. “
Your position as the Deputy President to President William Ruto is intact. We are not negotiating positions; we are negotiating issues that matter to our people.”
Oburu emphasized that ODM is a national party, dismissing claims of tribal or narrow political interests. “Our politics is about inclusivity, development, and fairness for all Kenyans, regardless of where they come from,” he said.
He added that talks with UDA would focus on securing tangible benefits for supporters and the public, rather than personal gains for leaders. “We will only negotiate what is good for us and what is good for Kenyans,” Oburu stated.
Addressing party critics who accused him of rushing negotiations, Oburu defended early engagement. “Elections are next year. Serious politics cannot be done at the last minute. Negotiations must start early,” he said.
The NYOTA programme launch highlighted initiatives on job creation, skills development, and youth empowerment, drawing youth leaders and government officials from the three counties.
