Oburu Tells Discontented ODM Members They Are Free to Exit
ODM leaders in Siaya County have declared the party ready for structured political negotiations ahead of the next General Election.
At a rally held at Linda Ground, Senator Oburu Oginga, who has taken over as party leader, said ODM is not expelling dissenting members but remains open to those who choose to leave. He stressed that the party intends to move beyond opposition politics and secure a role in government.
Oburu explained that upcoming talks will focus on governance, development priorities and power-sharing, dismissing claims that ODM is rushing into early negotiations. He urged unity within the party, noting that ODM’s long period in opposition must now give way to a bid for power.
The event was presented as a consolidation of ODM’s base in Siaya. Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi described it as proof of the party’s determination to remain a leading force, while Siaya Assembly Speaker George Okode called for cohesion under Oburu’s leadership.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi supported Oburu’s position, saying ODM’s strategy is based on lawful and structured engagement. He backed the idea of a pre-election pact with President William Ruto, citing longstanding ties between Ruto and the Luo community.
“Any political party strives to have power,” Wandayi said, framing the negotiations as a practical step towards influence.
Oburu also confirmed that the Azimio coalition had ceased to exist following ODM’s withdrawal. “It died the same day ODM left it,” he said, marking a clear break from past alliances
