'I'll take you to Canaan but through Singapore,' Oburu says amid ODM-UDA talks

Speaking during the Lake Region Community Dialogue in Kisumu on Saturday, January 24, Dr Oburu compared his leadership transition to Joshua taking over from Moses, saying he would pursue Raila’s vision of reaching Canaan, the promised land. 

He added that the vision remains, but with a detour to Singapore - President William Ruto's new dream of transforming Kenya to first-world status. 

According to Oburu, coalition discussions with the ruling United Democratic Alliance were necessary, noting that ODM was already working with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) within the broad-based government framework.

“Like Joshua who remained after Moses, I will take you to Canaan, but through Singapore, which is where Raila wanted us to go,” he stated. 

Continuing with the bible analogy, Dr Oburu stated that Raila had previously acknowledged that he might not live to see that vision realised.

“Raila had said he might not reach that destination with us, and unfortunately, that came to pass,” Oburu noted. 

The ODM party leader pointed out that he never sought the position of ODM party leader but noted that his brother's death thrust upon him a responsibility he had not anticipated.

“I was appointed as the ODM party leader, and there was no day I ever applied for this position. I never imagined that Raila Odinga would die before me and leave me behind, this is what pains me the most,” Oburu said.

“After his death, I found myself becoming party leader. I can never be Raila Odinga. I cannot copy or replace him, he left very big shoes that no one can fit, including myself."

However, Oburu expressed confidence that with the backing of party supporters, he could guide ODM through its next phase.

“With your support as Onagi, I believe I can lead ODM successfully. I am therefore asking for your full support,” he declared.

He reminded members of the broad-based government arrangement, which is anchored on a ten-point agenda, with a strong focus on improving education and healthcare. Oburu said the party must now make a clear decision on its political direction.

“Despite this, some people still want ODM to remain in opposition. Now that I am party leader, we must decide clearly where we are headed,” he remarked. 

He insisted that ODM remains active and influential, urging members to approach negotiations from a position of strength.

“Let it be clear that ODM is not asleep or silent. We must negotiate from a position of strength as ODM. We must also vote with strength and with numbers,” he pointed out. 

Oburu concluded by appealing for unity within the party as it navigates coalition talks with the ruling party and defines its role in the current political landscape ahead of the 2027 polls.