ODM leader Oburu Oginga rejects outside direction on negotiations with UDA.
The ODM leader says the party will set its own negotiating terms and insists on full implementation of the 10-point agenda.
ODM leader Oburu Oginga has rejected outside pressure on ODM-UDA talks over a written agreement ahead of the 2027 elections. He also insisted that full implementation of the 10-point agenda remains a condition of engagement.
In a statement, the Siaya Senator accused individuals, including non-members, of trying to dictate the party’s negotiating strategy. He said ODM’s established structures and experienced leadership could defend its interests without outside direction.
Oburu, who has been recovering from a recent hospitalisation, said he noticed the interventions during his temporary political absence. He urged those outside ODM to address national challenges instead of offering unsolicited advice.
Meanwhile, he defended ODM’s contribution to the broad-based government, saying the party’s sacrifices supported national progress and stability.
Written agreement divides ODM-UDA talks
The statement comes amid disagreement within ODM over securing binding commitments before supporting President William Ruto’s re-election bid. Some leaders cite government projects and appointments as evidence of goodwill, while others want written guarantees.
Uriri MP Mark Nyamita has pointed to road projects, markets and senior appointments to question that requirement. Similarly, Nyando MP Jared Okello argues that written pacts do not necessarily ensure compliance, citing past unfulfilled political agreements.
However, Homa Bay Woman Representative Ruth Odinga insists that any coalition arrangement must include binding commitments. She has also warned against reducing ODM to a regional party.
Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma expects the negotiations to produce a written agreement after technical teams complete their work. Meanwhile, Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang has urged ODM to learn from previous partnerships and protect its interests.
Power-sharing demands and the 10-point agenda
The debate also covers government positions, with ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga and Minority Leader Junet Mohamed advocating equal sharing. Wanga’s proposal would leave UDA with the presidency while giving ODM the deputy presidency and half the Cabinet appointments.
However, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki wants to retain his position if Ruto wins another term.
Beyond those demands, Oburu said the agenda agreed by Ruto and the late Raila Odinga must remain central. The two leaders reached the agreement in March 2025 to address national concerns and strengthen cooperation.
The framework covers electoral reform, human rights, devolution, corruption, living costs, youth employment and gender inclusion. It also includes outstanding constitutional and governance reforms.
ODM and UDA have established a joint technical process to advance their cooperation and preparations for 2027. Oburu maintains that implementing the agenda requires sustained engagement, rather than judging progress solely by elapsed time.
