By Afrireport 
Tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have resurfaced. Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi publicly rejected calls to support President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027. He told veteran party stalwart Oburu Oginga that his political loyalty cannot be dictated.
Osotsi spoke during a political gathering in western Kenya. He appeared to push back against recent remarks by Oburu. Oburu had suggested that ODM leaders should begin engaging with President Ruto’s administration. They should also consider future political alignments.
Osotsi made it clear that while dialogue across political divides is welcome, forced political endorsements are unacceptable.
You will not force me to support Ruto in 2027,” Osotsi said, drawing applause from supporters. “ODM has its own values, history and leadership structures. Decisions about our political future must be made collectively and democratically not through intimidation or pressure.”
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Osotsi emphasized that ODM’s cooperation with the government under the bipartisan framework should not be mistaken for political surrender or endorsement of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
He warned against using the party’s engagement in national dialogue as a pathway to prematurely endorse President Ruto’s second term ambitions.
The outspoken ODM deputy leader reiterated his loyalty to party leader Raila Odinga, stating that ODM remains focused on protecting the interests of Kenyans, particularly on issues of cost of living, governance and electoral justice.
He added that any discussion about 2027 should be left to party organs and the electorate.
Osotsi’s remarks underscore growing unease within ODM over perceived attempts to realign the party closer to the ruling coalition.
While some leaders advocate for strategic cooperation with the government, others fear such moves could weaken ODM’s opposition identity.
As the 2027 general election slowly comes into focus, the comments signal that internal debates within ODM are far from settled.
For now, Osotsi insists that ODM members will not be coerced into political positions that undermine the party’s autonomy or the will of its supporters.
