Speaking during a consultative meeting with party supporters in Siaya County, Oburu said ODM’s current political direction should not surprise anyone, arguing that political parties must constantly reassess their strategies based on prevailing national interests.
ODM left Azimio a long time ago. Now we are formalising it. There is no shame in that as there is no political party that is formed just to remain in opposition forever,” he said.
The senator maintained that politics is about influence and the ability to shape governance, not symbolic resistance.
According to him, remaining in perpetual opposition without a clear path to power would disadvantage both the party and its supporters.
Oburu, a veteran politician and elder brother to ODM leader Raila Odinga, said the party’s focus is now on repositioning itself strategically ahead of the 2027 General Election.
He hinted that ODM is exploring new political arrangements that would guarantee what he termed as meaningful participation in government.
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His remarks are likely to stir fresh debate within opposition ranks, especially among leaders who still identify strongly with the Azimio coalition formed ahead of the 2022 polls.
Azimio brought together several parties in a bid to capture power but has faced internal strains since losing the presidential contest.
Oburu argued that coalition politics must be dynamic, noting that alliances are formed based on shared interests at a particular time.
When those interests evolve, he said, parties must adapt.
Politics is not about permanent enemies or permanent friends. It is about the interests of the people you represent,” he added.
Political analysts interpret Oburu’s statement as a signal that ODM could be inching closer to cooperation with President William Ruto and his ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), although no formal agreement has been publicly announced.
Within Siaya and the larger Nyanza region, reactions appear mixed. Some supporters argue that aligning with the government could unlock development opportunities, while others fear it may dilute ODM’s long held opposition identity.
Despite the emerging divisions, Oburu insisted that the party leadership is united in its decision.
He emphasized that ODM’s ultimate goal is to secure tangible benefits for its supporters rather than remain confined to protest politics.
As the political landscape begins to shift ahead of 2027, ODM’s formal separation from Azimio could significantly reshape opposition dynamics and redefine alliances across the country.
