By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 2 February 2026 - ODM party leader Oburu Oginga has poured cold water on claims of an emerging political rivalry with Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki, declaring that the party’s cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza administration is rooted in national interest — not a scramble for power.
Speaking on Monday during the launch of the Nota programme in Kisumu, Oburu was unequivocal: ODM is not eyeing the Deputy President’s seat.
“For the Deputy President, we do not want your seat. You are our friend,” he said, underscoring a new tone of political détente.
According to Oburu, ODM’s engagement with President William Ruto’s administration marks a strategic recalibration after years of bitter political contestation. The shift, he noted, followed the loss of his brother and veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga’s long-time ally — a moment that forced the party to rethink its place in national politics.
“ODM has collaborated with UDA in the broad-based government. Since we lost my brother and he left us in this situation, we decided to work together,” Oburu said.
He insisted that ongoing negotiations with the government are focused squarely on delivering tangible gains for citizens.
“As we negotiate, we will negotiate for what our people deserve and for all Kenyans.”
But even as ODM embraces cooperation at the top, Oburu issued a sharp warning to opposition factions calling for renewed street protests. Drawing from ODM’s long history of mass action, he cautioned against attempts to provoke unrest.
“We were known for protests. Some people are now talking about demos — let them come, we will show them protests. They do not know protests,” he said, a remark widely interpreted as both a boast and a deterrent.
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Oburu was also keen to reposition ODM as a truly national movement, rejecting narratives that frame the party as ethnically or regionally confined.
“Our party is not a Jaluo party. It is a party for the whole country,” he said, stressing that equitable development remains the party’s core mission.
“We will make sure everyone gets a fair share of the national cake.”
Turning his guns on emerging political challengers, Oburu questioned their visibility and grassroots reach, suggesting they lack the momentum needed to mount a serious challenge.
“Those who want to take over government — I don’t see them campaigning. They are just circling in one area,” he said, before praising President Ruto’s political energy. “I have never seen a president campaign with this kind of energy.”
Closing his remarks with a call for unity and stability, Oburu urged Kenyans to support the current political cooperation as a pathway to development and shared prosperity.
“Let us continue to embrace our country so that our people benefit,” he said, ending with a metaphor-laden rallying cry: Tufike Canaan kupitia Singapore.
His remarks come against the backdrop of rising political tensions. Just last week, opposition leaders raised concerns over disruptions and violence at their rallies, announcing plans to file formal complaints with authorities to ensure future political activities are conducted safely.
