ODM Won’t Back Gachagua, Says Oburu as Party Eyes 2027 Power-Sharing Deal with Ruto

By Yvone Jeptarus

Siaya Senator and ODM leader Oburu Oginga has firmly dismissed speculation that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) could team up with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua ahead of the 2027 General Election, declaring that the party will not allow itself to be “swallowed” by any political formation.

Speaking amid increasing political realignments across the country, Oburu rejected claims by Gachagua that he had been compromised by the state, describing the allegations as false and defamatory.

“I will take legal action so that he can explain, publicly, how much I was allegedly paid. I cannot be bought,” Oburu said.

His remarks come as opposition leaders explore possible alliances to challenge President William Ruto's re-election bid in 2027. However, Oburu made it clear that ODM is charting a different course and has no intention of joining Gachagua’s emerging opposition movement.

Instead, the veteran politician revealed that ODM is focused on negotiating a coalition arrangement with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), with discussions expected to revolve around power-sharing and key government positions.

According to Oburu, all options remain open in the ongoing engagements, including negotiations for top executive offices such as the Deputy President’s seat.

“We are not ashamed to say we want power,” he stated, emphasizing that ODM’s priority is to remain at the centre of government rather than return to the opposition benches after the next election.

The ODM leader stressed that any future political agreement must reflect the party’s strength and influence, warning against arrangements that would marginalize the party.

“We cannot be given peanuts,” he said, insisting that ODM would only enter coalition talks from a position of strength.

Oburu’s comments are likely to intensify debate over ODM’s political direction and could reshape the conversation around potential alliances as parties position themselves for the high-stakes 2027 contest.

With coalition negotiations already taking shape and rival camps working to consolidate support, ODM’s stance signals a major shift in Kenya’s evolving political landscape, where access to power appears set to be the defining factor in the race to State House.