Oburu Odinga to Lead Initial Engagements with Ruto Before 2027 Vote

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has authorised its leadership to begin formal talks with other political parties, including the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), ahead of the next general election.

The decision was made by the party’s Central Committee during a meeting held in Kilifi County on 12 January. In a statement issued after the meeting, Oburu Oginga said the committee had given ODM’s party leader a formal mandate to initiate structured discussions with UDA and other groups. He said the talks would be planned and methodical, with the aim of identifying areas of shared interest rather than forming short-term alliances.

The committee said any agreement must reflect the views of ODM members across the country. To achieve this, the party will hold nationwide consultations before calling a National Delegates Convention, which is responsible for approving major party decisions. The approach is intended to ensure that any future partnership is supported by the party’s base.

The meeting also reviewed ODM’s 10-Point Agenda, including the issue of compensating victims of public protests. After a court ruling invalidated ODM’s panel of experts on compensation, the committee resolved that such matters should be handled through the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), placing the process within an established constitutional body.

Several senior officials were not present at the meeting, including Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Otsotsi. Oginga said both had sent apologies, citing logistical challenges. Their absence drew attention because Sifuna has previously been among the strongest critics of the Kenya Kwanza administration.

In 2025, Sifuna said he would rather leave ODM than support cooperation with President William Ruto. However, after the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, he later stated that he would not allow personal views to threaten the party’s future.