Oburu Oginga has declared that the Orange Democratic Movement will not be “swallowed” by the ruling United Democratic Alliance in the ongoing broad-based political arrangement.
Speaking on Monday while presiding over the Nairobi ODM youth forum, Oburu assures party members that ODM will defend its strongholds and expand its influence ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“As ODM, we cannot be swallowed. If you try to swallow ODM, your stomach will burst,” he says.
The remarks come amid growing concern among ODM supporters over the party’s cooperation with President William Ruto and his allies.
National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed emphasises that the broad-based arrangement is not a political party, insisting that ODM remains the primary vehicle for political engagement.
“Broad-based is not a party. The party is ODM. Even if someone wants our support, they must go through our party ODM,” Junet states.
Oburu further reveals that the party plans to embark on “meet the people” tours across 25 counties to consolidate support, expressing confidence that ODM will retain its current seats and potentially double its representation.
ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga says the party will field candidates across all elective positions in 2027, from governors to Members of Parliament and women representatives.
“We will have candidates everywhere… all will be ODM,” Wanga says.
Makadara MP George Aladwa echoes the sentiment, insisting that key political seats in Nairobi will remain under ODM.
On the UDA side, Deputy Secretary General Catherine Omanyo maintains that the ruling party is not intimidated, regardless of zoning arrangements.
ODM leaders also criticise UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar, with ODM deputy party leader Simba Arati urging him to “cool down” over his remarks.
Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho reiterates his support for ODM, while deputy party leader Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir stresses that no individual is bigger than the party.
During the same meeting, Oburu threatens legal action against Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), over claims that he had been compromised to hand over ODM to President Ruto.
“There is someone who said Oburu was bought. I will take him to court to explain. I cannot be bought,” he says.
The statements highlight intensifying political positioning and rivalry as parties prepare for the 2027 elections.