ODM Signals Pre-Election Realignment as Oburu Dismisses Expulsion Claims, Declares Azimio Ties Severed

By Kimagata Marindany

Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has rallied party supporters to remain united, even as he signalled ODM’s readiness to negotiate new political alliances ahead of the next General Election.

Speaking during a rally at Linda Ground in Siaya County on Saturday, Oburu dismissed speculation that ODM intends to expel dissenting members amid internal disagreements.

“This party has always been about inclusion and shared purpose. We are focused on strengthening our base and preparing for meaningful negotiations, not punishing anyone,” he told the crowd.
He added that membership in the party remains voluntary.

“We are not expelling anybody from the party, but anybody who feels uncomfortable with us is free to leave,” Oburu said.

Oburu said ODM’s immediate focus is on policy discussions, development priorities and equitable sharing of leadership positions — negotiations he described as crucial to repositioning the party for governance.

“We have spent a long time outside government. Now, our goal is to ensure that ODM is at the table where decisions are made,” he said.

Responding to critics who argue the party has moved too quickly into pre-election mode, the senator defended early planning as both strategic and necessary.

“Planning ahead is not rushing. The next election is around the corner, and parties must organise to remain competitive,” he noted.

In a significant political declaration, Oburu confirmed that ODM has formally cut ties with the Azimio la Umoja–One Kenya Coalition Party, describing the coalition as effectively defunct following ODM’s withdrawal.

“Azimio no longer exists as far as ODM is concerned,” he said.

The announcement underscores a broader realignment within opposition politics and signals ODM’s intention to chart its own path ahead of 2027.

The developments come amid internal turbulence within ODM following the attempted removal of Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.

On February 11, 2026, the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) passed a resolution seeking to oust Sifuna from his position. However, the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) intervened and temporarily reinstated him.

The tribunal halted the implementation of the NEC’s decision and barred the party from publishing the resolution in the Kenya Gazette — a move that would have formalised his removal.

The orders will remain in force pending a full hearing and determination of the dispute.

The attempted ouster triggered sharp debate within the party, with several allies terming the move irregular and politically motivated.

By freezing both the implementation and gazettement of the resolution, the tribunal effectively restored and safeguarded Sifuna’s position — at least for now — as the matter proceeds through legal channels.

With internal tensions simmering and coalition ties reshaped, ODM now faces a delicate balancing act as it seeks unity while positioning itself for the next electoral contest.