Oburu trains eyes on presidency, but says will defend Siaya Senate seat as backup plan

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Dr. Oburu Oginga has stirred another political storm after declaring interest in the presidency at the 2027 General Election, just less than a week after announcing that he would defend his Siaya Senate seat.

Speaking to Ramogi TV, Dr. Oburu said he will contest for the country’s top seat should he receive the ODM party’s backing.

The Siaya Senator exuded confidence in his ability to take on any presidential candidate, citing his vast political experience and long service in national leadership.

Dr. Oburu, however, clarified that if ODM opts not to field a presidential candidate, then he would defend his Siaya Senatorial seat in 2027 - a declaration that has reportedly sent Senate hopefuls in the county back to the drawing board.

“I will defend my seat if the party will not field a presidential candidate. But if they agree to have a presidential candidate, then I am that candidate,” Dr. Oburu noted.

The ODM leader also appeared to soften his stance on the growing “one-term” versus “two-term” political debate surrounding President William Ruto’s administration.

According to Oburu, prematurely taking a hardline position on the matter could jeopardise ongoing negotiations between ODM and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) over a possible coalition or power-sharing arrangement.

“I find it difficult to say two-term or one-term because we are not in any agreement yet. If I do that, then our negotiations will lose objectivity,” he added.

His remarks come at a time when ODM Minority Leader in the National Assembly Millie Odhiambo and ODM Deputy Organising Secretary, who is also Kisumu Woman Representative, Ruth Odinga, have publicly weighed in on the ongoing “two-term” and “one-term” political discourse.

In separate statements shared on their social media platforms, the two legislators appeared to align themselves with Oburu’s position, insisting that the focus should remain on strengthening the party rather than engaging in slogan politics.

“I said singing two-term or one-term doesn’t help wananchi. Our focus is to strengthen and build our party,” Ruth Odinga stated.

The Siaya Senator also dismissed reports of a fallout between him and Siaya Governor James Orengo, who has in recent times declared himself the de facto ODM party leader.

Oburu revealed that the two leaders are expected to meet soon in a bid to address what he termed as ideological and leadership differences perceived by the public.

“I have nothing against Ajimmy. Bishop Okoth of Bondo Parish had called us for a meeting and I hope we shall have a conversation to see what he is not comfortable with. If it’s my leadership in ODM, I have already been endorsed by the party’s NDC,” Oburu indicated.