NAIROBI, Kenya- Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Oginga has declared that he is qualified to serve as President William Ruto’s running mate in the 2027 General Election, as discussions over the broad-based government’s deputy presidential candidate continue to gather momentum.
Speaking at State House during a meeting hosted by President Ruto for village elders, Oburu said ODM had already resolved not to field its own presidential candidate and would instead support Ruto’s re-election bid.
He, however, argued that the position of Deputy President remains open for negotiation within the coalition.
“As ODM we will not have a candidate, our candidate is President William Ruto, but all the other positions are negotiable, particularly number two. Don’t you think I deserve to be number two? Mimi nimetosha,” Oburu said.
Backs Broad-Based Government
Oburu reaffirmed ODM’s commitment to the broad-based government arrangement, saying the party was working alongside the Kenya Kwanza administration to help deliver its development agenda.
He said the coalition should remain focused on implementing programmes that improve the lives of Kenyans.
“We are working with President Ruto in this broad-based government. My small brother Raila Odinga left us there and we are going to work together to make a strong government and always push for having a vision,” he said.
The veteran politician also urged opposition leaders to present alternative policy proposals instead of dismissing the government’s development efforts.
“The president is trying his best and the opposition should also try to bring their own programmes that they want to do to the people.”
Defends Government Borrowing
Oburu also defended the government’s borrowing, arguing that public debt has been used to finance development projects and support livelihoods rather than for personal gain.
His remarks come after the National Treasury reported that Kenya’s public debt had risen to Sh12.82 trillion, following additional borrowing from multilateral lenders and commercial creditors between January and April.
“Some people are saying he is burdening the country with debt, but that debt he is not eating, he is paying the people. If it is something that is benefiting the people we must appreciate it,” Oburu said.
Running Mate Debate Persists
Oburu’s comments come amid growing debate within the broad-based coalition over President Ruto’s preferred running mate for the 2027 General Election.
While leaders allied to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) have publicly backed Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to retain the position, a section of ODM leaders has been pushing for Cooperatives and MSMEs Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya to be considered for the role.
The differing positions have highlighted ongoing political negotiations within the coalition as parties begin positioning themselves ahead of the next General Election.
