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Oburu Oginga Signals 2027 Presidential Bid, Says ODM Decision Due by 2027.Photo|Coutersy. |
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Oginga has declared his intention to contest the presidency in the 2027 general election, stating that he would be the party’s flagbearer should ODM opt to field its own candidate.
Speaking to Kenyans on Wednesday, December 31, Dr. Oburu said ODM will remain part of the broad-based political arrangement with the Kenya Kwanza government until 2027, in line with an agreement reached by his late brother, Raila Odinga. He noted, however, that a final decision on whether the party will run independently or form a coalition with other political parties will be made before then.
According to Oburu, the year 2026 will be critical in shaping ODM’s direction ahead of the next general election. He said all key decisions and arrangements must be concluded before the end of that year to allow the party to prepare adequately for 2027.
“2026 is a crucial year for our party because things must be worked out before 2027. Before the end of 2026, we shall have clearly known and made all necessary arrangements going into 2027,” he said. He added that by the end of the year, ODM will have determined whether it will contest the election on its own or enter into a coalition, as well as identify its political partners.
Oburu emphasized that the ODM constitution is clear on who qualifies as the party’s presidential candidate. He stated that if the party decides to go it alone, the party leader automatically becomes the presidential flagbearer.
“If we’re going it alone, I want to make it clear that our Constitution has the presidential candidate for our party and it is the party leader. I am the presidential candidate for ODM if the party decides to go it alone,” he said. He further warned that anyone within ODM positioning themselves for a presidential bid is mistaken, advising such individuals to seek another political party if they intend to run.
The ODM leader also dismissed political slogans such as “one-term” (wantam) and “two-term” (tutam), saying they are not part of the party’s policy. He stressed that ODM’s focus remains on unity, strengthening the party, and serving the interests of the people.
“Our policy is to work in unity, strengthen our party and continue working within this broad-based arrangement until 2027,” Oburu said, adding that the party will take all necessary measures to protect its cohesion as the election approaches.
