Speaking during a condolence visit to the family of the late former Lugari MP, Cyrus Jirongo, on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, Oburu emphasized that once the party reaches consensus on a specific course of action, all members should speak with one voice.
Oburu stressed that his leadership style is consultative, involving discussions with party officials and members before decisions are made. He clarified that he does not dictate terms unilaterally, noting that collaboration is key.
Oburu stressed that his leadership style is consultative, involving discussions with party officials and members before decisions are made. He clarified that he does not dictate terms unilaterally, noting that collaboration is key.
“Siwezi sema najua kila kitu, ama nikisema ati left ni left, lazima tuconsult na watu wetu, lakini tukisha consult, na tumeshakubaliana, ati hii ndio policy ya chama, kila mtu aseme hio language, isiwe tukitoka hapo, huyu anasema language yake, huyu yake,” he explained.
The remarks come amid growing concerns from some ODM leaders who have warned that certain elements within the party may be attempting to influence its direction improperly.
The remarks come amid growing concerns from some ODM leaders who have warned that certain elements within the party may be attempting to influence its direction improperly.
Siaya Governor James Orengo, for example, has recently accused some party members of seeking to “sell” the party to the President, raising alarms about potential internal divisions.
In the same context, Nairobi Senator and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna emphasized that the party’s stance ahead of the 2027 General Election should be determined by a majority consensus, rather than a small group of leaders.
In the same context, Nairobi Senator and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna emphasized that the party’s stance ahead of the 2027 General Election should be determined by a majority consensus, rather than a small group of leaders.
He reiterated that former Prime Minister Raila Odinga had envisioned ODM producing its own presidential candidate and never instructed the party to support a specific individual.
Sifuna’s position underscores the importance of inclusive decision-making and reflects ongoing debates about the party’s future leadership and electoral strategy.
Meanwhile, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi weighed in on the regional political outlook, asserting that no candidate from the Luo community currently has the capacity to mount a campaign capable of defeating President William Ruto in 2027.
Meanwhile, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi weighed in on the regional political outlook, asserting that no candidate from the Luo community currently has the capacity to mount a campaign capable of defeating President William Ruto in 2027.
He encouraged members of the Luo nation to support the President’s re-election, suggesting that doing so would ensure reciprocal benefits for the community.
Oburu Odinga’s statements highlight his commitment to fostering party cohesion while allowing for internal dialogue and debate.
Oburu Odinga’s statements highlight his commitment to fostering party cohesion while allowing for internal dialogue and debate.
He warned that mixed messages from party members can undermine collective decisions, weaken the party’s image, and confuse supporters.
Unity, according to Oburu, is critical not only for maintaining discipline within ODM but also for ensuring the party’s effectiveness in national politics.
The emphasis on consensus and a unified voice comes at a critical moment for ODM, as it navigates internal debates on leadership, electoral strategy, and the legacy of its late leader, Raila Odinga.
The emphasis on consensus and a unified voice comes at a critical moment for ODM, as it navigates internal debates on leadership, electoral strategy, and the legacy of its late leader, Raila Odinga.
With the 2027 General Election approaching, the party’s ability to maintain cohesion will be crucial in presenting a clear and united front to the electorate.
