- ODM says it is not forcing anyone out but welcomes only committed members.
- Senator Oburu Oginga insists future talks will focus on policies and power-sharing.
- The party has declared it will not remain in opposition in the next government.
- Leaders announced that the Azimio coalition is no longer active after ODM’s exit.
- Senior party figures have backed possible pre-election talks with President William Ruto.
The Orange Democratic Movement has declared that it is ready to reposition itself ahead of the next General Election, with leaders making it clear that the party wants a share of power.
Speaking during a rally in Siaya, Senator Oburu Oginga said ODM is no longer interested in sitting on the opposition benches. He stressed that political parties are formed to lead governments, not to remain outside power for long periods.
According to him, the time has come for ODM to take a firm stand and prepare to be part of the next administration.
Oburu dismissed claims that the party is pushing out dissenting voices. He said ODM remains open to all members, but anyone who feels uncomfortable is free to make their own decision.
He emphasised that unity remains a priority as the party works to strengthen its base. The Siaya meeting, he explained, was aimed at bringing members together and planning a clear political direction.
ODM leaders urged critics to allow the party space to organise itself without outside interference.
The senator made it clear that any upcoming negotiations will not be based on loose alliances. Instead, discussions will centre on policies, development plans and structured sharing of leadership positions.
He said governance and programme-based agreements will guide the talks, noting that ODM is keen on entering arrangements that offer clear roles and responsibilities.
Preparations, he added, are already underway across the political landscape, and ODM cannot afford to sit back while others plan for the next election cycle.
In a bold statement, Oburu announced that the Azimio la Umoja coalition effectively collapsed when ODM exited.
He said that although the departure may not have been formally declared at the time, the coalition ceased to function once ODM walked away. In his view, Azimio no longer exists as a political force.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi supported Oburu’s position, stating that every political party aims to gain power through lawful means.
Wandayi endorsed the idea of a pre-election negotiation pact between ODM and William Ruto, saying such engagement would serve the interests of the party and its supporters. He noted that Ruto has maintained a long relationship with the community and welcomed structured talks.
Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi also praised the rally, describing it as a key moment for both Siaya County and the party. He affirmed that ODM recognises Oburu as its leader and supports his role in guiding negotiations.
With political temperatures slowly rising across the country, ODM leaders insist their early preparations are both strategic and necessary.
The message from Siaya was clear: the party is reorganising, uniting its supporters and positioning itself to influence the next government.
As the countdown to the General Election continues, ODM appears determined to move from the sidelines to the centre of power.
