Kisii Governor Simba Arati has pledged fair contests for ODM tickets ahead of 2027.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati promises an open contest for party tickets ahead of 2027, while Oburu Oginga defends ODM’s cooperation with President William Ruto.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati has promised free and fair ODM nominations ahead of the 2027 General Election. His assurance includes the Nairobi Senate ticket, which East African Legislative Assembly MP Winnie Odinga plans to seek.
Arati spoke during the first anniversary memorial for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Bondo on Thursday, October 15, 2026. He also delivered a speech on behalf of ODM leader Oburu Oginga, who missed the gathering on medical advice.
Winnie declared her interest in the Senate seat during the memorial. Meanwhile, Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, has also emerged as a possible contender for the party ticket.
ODM nominations face a credibility test
Arati assured supporters that aspirants would have a fair opportunity to compete for the party’s tickets. He specifically included the Nairobi Senate contest in that commitment.
However, the pledge comes against a record of disputed primaries within ODM. Previous contests have triggered complaints over results, candidate selection and the party’s handling of grievances.
During the 2017 primaries, some aspirants took their disputes to the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal and the courts. Those challenges questioned the credibility of the nomination exercises.
That history adds weight to Arati’s assurance as candidates prepare for the next election. The party must also manage competing ambitions and address complaints over its selection process.
Oburu misses memorial on medical advice
In the speech Arati delivered, Oburu said doctors had directed him to rest and avoid public appearances. The Siaya Senator, who turned 83 on Thursday, apologised for missing the gathering at Migwena Cultural Ground.
He said he had wanted to join relatives, party leaders and supporters in honouring his younger brother. However, his doctors had prescribed strict bed rest to support his recovery.
The date carried personal significance for Oburu because it marked both his birthday and Raila’s first death anniversary. He described the memorial as a chance to reflect on Raila’s contribution to democracy and renew ODM’s commitments.
Oburu also said Raila had carried forward the political mantle of their father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. He linked that tradition to the pursuit of democracy, constitutionalism and social justice.
ODM leader defends broad-based arrangement
Oburu also defended ODM’s participation in the broad-based government, rejecting claims that it betrayed the party’s longstanding struggle. Instead, he presented cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration as a strategic way to advance ODM’s objectives.
He argued that the party could not fully pursue economic equity, devolution and institutional integrity from outside power. Engagement in government, he said, would help ODM influence policy while preparing to form the next administration.
At the same time, Oburu urged members to remain united and disciplined. He said party structures remained operational and cautioned supporters against rumours and internal disagreements.
Memorial highlights Raila’s legacy
Oburu highlighted the mausoleum at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo and thanked the Kenya Defence Forces for its construction role. He also cited the planned 60,000-seat Raila Amolo Odinga International Stadium in Talanta City.
He described Raila’s vision as one of national unity, equitable development, stronger devolution and protection for vulnerable groups. In addition, he thanked Kenyans and international supporters who had stood with the family during mourning.
Oburu urged supporters to preserve democratic gains and continue pursuing economic liberation. He said Raila’s political legacy would remain central to ODM’s programme as the party prepares for 2027.
