ODM Party leader Oburu Oginga speaking in Kisumu./SCREENGRAB
ODM party leader Oburu Oginga has dismissed claims of political rivalry with the Deputy President, insisting that the party’s engagement with the Kenya Kwanza administration is driven by national interest, not power contests.
“For the Deputy President, we do not want your seat. You are our friend,” Oburu said on Monday during the launch of Nota programme in Kisumu.
“As we negotiate, we will negotiate for what our people deserve and for all Kenyans.”
Oburu said ODM’s cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration follows years of political contestation and the loss of his brother, veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga’s long-time ally, which reshaped the party’s approach to 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,” he said.
Responding to renewed calls for street protests by sections of the opposition, Oburu warned against attempts to provoke unrest, saying ODM supporters are well aware of the cost of demonstrations.
“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.
He reiterated that ODM is a national party and not confined to any single ethnic or regional identity.
“Our party is not a Jaluo party. It is a party for the whole country,” Oburu said, adding that the party’s priority is equitable development.
“We will make sure everyone gets a fair share of the national cake.”
Oburu also took a swipe at emerging political rivals, questioning their visibility and grassroots engagement.
“Those who want to take over government — I don’t see them campaigning. They are just circling in one area,” he said. “I have never seen a president campaign with this kind of energy.”
Calling for unity and stability, the ODM leader urged Kenyans to support the current political cooperation to unlock development and shared prosperity.
“Let us continue to embrace our country so that our people benefit,” he said, ending with a metaphorical rallying call: “Tufike Canaan kupitia Singapore.”
Last week, Opposition leaders have raised concerns over incidents of disruption and violence at their political gatherings, urging authorities to take action.
The leaders said they were submitting complaints to ensure that future political activities are conducted safely.
Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi’s Central Business District on Friday after submitting complaints to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said the opposition had provided details of recent incidents, warning that they would call for mass action should security measures not be taken.
“We have submitted the details to the Inspector General to take action against those involved in the attack (Othaya). Should no action be taken, we will urge Kenyans to come out,” he said.