KISUMU, Kenya — ODM leader Oburu Oginga has firmly dismissed the possibility of a political alliance between the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a major ODM rally at Kirembe Grounds in Kisumu on Sunday, Oburu said the party would instead pursue partnerships with political formations that share its values and objectives, while insisting that any coalition arrangement must be founded on equality and mutual respect.
“I cannot lead ODM supporters into an alliance with Gachagua,” Oburu said, signaling the party’s preferred political direction as realignments intensify ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The veteran politician said ODM would prioritize cooperation with parties it shares common interests with, particularly those it is currently working alongside within the broad-based government arrangement.
Oburu emphasized that ODM would not enter any coalition where it is treated as a junior partner.
The remarks came as he urged thousands of supporters to remain loyal to the party, declaring that ODM is already laying the groundwork for a strong bid for power in 2027.
He described the Luo community as the backbone of the party and cautioned against political divisions that could weaken ODM’s influence.
“They are the pillar of ODM, and I’m telling them to remain the pillar of the ODM party. We are aiming for power in 2027, and we are going to make sure we defeat them,” he told supporters.
According to Oburu, unity remains critical to the community’s political strength and bargaining power at the national level.
The rally also served as a platform for ODM to reaffirm its commitment to the broad-based government arrangement while outlining key policy priorities.
In resolutions adopted during the gathering, the party reiterated that the people of the Nyanza region would continue pursuing their political interests through ODM and pledged support for decisions made by the party’s governing organs, including the National Delegates Convention, National Executive Committee, and Central Committee.
ODM leaders further endorsed the party’s leadership structure, including deputy party leaders Simba Arati and Ahmed Abdullahi Mohamed, as well as Chairperson Gladys Wanga.
On national politics, the party reaffirmed its intention to remain part of the broad-based government while pursuing strategic partnerships aimed at capturing power in future elections.
“We reaffirm our commitment to staying in the broad-based government now and in the future and building partnerships to capture power,” the party stated in its resolutions.
ODM also called for the implementation of the 10-point cooperation framework agreed upon within the broad-based arrangement, including compensation for victims of past post-election violence.
The party used the occasion to pay tribute to Raila Odinga, describing him as a political icon whose advocacy for social democracy, devolution, constitutionalism, and strong county governments continues to shape ODM’s vision.
