In a fiery address that has sent shockwaves through the Azimio coalition, ODM Party Leader Dr. Oburu Oginga has firmly rejected leadership changes orchestrated by former President Uhuru Kenyatta and issued a stern ultimatum to internal dissenters.

The political temperature in Nairobi has reached a boiling point as Dr. Oburu Oginga, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party Leader, moved decisively to assert his authority over the party machinery. In a calculated and blistering attack, Oburu has dismissed recent leadership reshuffles within the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition as illegitimate, specifically targeting the maneuvers of the coalition's Council Chairman, former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

The Azimio Power Struggle

Speaking from the ODM headquarters, Oburu did not mince his words. He categorically stated that he was not consulted regarding the purported changes in the coalition's leadership structure, a move he described as a violation of the coalition's founding agreement. "We will not accept decisions made in boardrooms without the consent of the partner parties," Oburu declared, signaling a potential rupture in the opposition alliance.

The controversy stems from a recent announcement by the Uhuru-led faction, which sought to reorganize the coalition's hierarchy. For Oburu, this was not merely a procedural oversight but a direct affront to ODM's standing as a principal partner. His rejection of these changes effectively paralyzes the coalition's ability to operate as a cohesive unit, raising serious questions about its viability ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Reading the Riot Act

Turning his gaze inward, Oburu read the riot act to a faction of ODM members who have been agitating for his removal. Reports have been circulating of a clandestine push by younger MPs to unseat the veteran politician, citing a need for "fresh blood" to revitalize the party. Oburu’s response was swift and uncompromising.

• The Ultimatum: He challenged those eyeing his seat to face him at the ballot during the party's elections rather than engaging in shadow boxing. "If you want power, come and take it democratically. Subversion will not be tolerated," he warned.
• Discipline Enforced: The Party Leader emphasized that indiscipline would be met with immediate expulsion, reminding members that the party's constitution is supreme.

This internal rebellion is symptomatic of the broader identity crisis facing ODM as it navigates its post-Raila Odinga era. Oburu, stepping into the colossal shoes of his late brother, is fighting to maintain a grip on a party that is increasingly fractured by ambition and external influence.

The Uhuru-Kalonzo Factor

The address also contained veiled barbs aimed at Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who has been perceived as maneuvering to inherit the Azimio mantle with Uhuru's blessing. By slamming Uhuru's unilateral decisions, Oburu is effectively checkmating Kalonzo's ascent, insisting that ODM will not play second fiddle in an alliance it anchors.

"We are the bedrock of this coalition," a senior ODM official close to Oburu told reporters. "Any attempt to sideline us or impose leaders upon us will be met with the full force of our grassroots mobilization." As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Oburu Oginga is not merely a caretaker; he is a combatant ready to burn bridges to save his party's soul.