The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has drawn a distinct line in the sand for future political alliances, declaring it will not settle for any position less than the deputy presidency in the 2027 General Election. The statement, made by acting party leader Dr. Oburu Oginga, marks the party's first major strategic declaration in the post-Raila Odinga era and is set to significantly influence the architecture of emerging political coalitions.

In an exclusive interview with NTV and Daily Nation on Sunday, November 2, 2025 (EAT), Dr. Oginga asserted that ODM's primary focus is to strengthen its grassroots structures to ensure it negotiates from a position of power. “If we have to go for a lower position, it must not be lower than number two (deputy president) in any formation. That is my take. We should not take less than that,” Dr. Oginga stated emphatically. This declaration serves as a clear message to both President William Ruto's ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and other political entities eyeing a partnership with the formidable opposition party.

A Party at a Crossroads

Dr. Oginga's pronouncement arrives at a pivotal moment for ODM, a party navigating a complex transition following the death of its iconic leader, Raila Odinga. His appointment as interim leader is seen by many as a move to provide stability and continuity. However, the party is grappling with divergent views on its future direction. Some senior members have publicly endorsed President Ruto for a second term, while others, including Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, insist the party has not yet made a formal decision on its 2027 presidential endorsement. Dr. Oginga clarified that Sifuna's statement reflects the official party position for now, emphasizing that the current cooperation with the government does not predetermine future electoral alliances.

The party's participation in President Ruto's “broad-based government” is currently guided by a 10-point memorandum of understanding signed on March 8, 2025, which focuses on policy implementation rather than a 2027 electoral pact. Several high-profile ODM members, including former senior officials, now serve in Ruto's Cabinet, a move Dr. Oginga explained was the result of wide consultations aimed at ensuring the party remains in government, a long-held view of his late brother.

Implications for 2027 Alliances

The ultimatum from ODM's interim leader is poised to send ripples across Kenya's political landscape. For President Ruto's Kenya Kwanza coalition, it complicates the existing power structure and the position of the current Deputy President, Prof. Kithure Kindiki. For the nascent United Opposition, which is also working on a power-sharing formula, ODM's demand raises the stakes for any potential collaboration. Political analysts suggest this move is a strategic effort by ODM to leverage its significant electoral base and ensure its continued relevance at the highest level of national politics.

The party's strategy is clear: consolidate its internal unity and nationwide support to make itself an indispensable partner in any winning coalition. “Nobody will respect you or negotiate with you if you are a weak party. Our emphasis is on strengthening our party, ODM, so that we can negotiate for the top position in the land,” Dr. Oginga explained. This sentiment was echoed in behind-the-scenes discussions within the party, where leaders from its Nyanza stronghold are determined to secure a top negotiating position ahead of 2027.

The Road Ahead

While Dr. Oginga's statement provides a clear bottom line for negotiations, the party's ultimate path remains open. He has indicated that ODM is not irrevocably tied to its current arrangement with UDA and is free to explore other alliances depending on how faithfully the current agreement is honored. The party has also confirmed its intention to field its own presidential candidate if a favorable coalition deal does not materialize, underscoring its commitment to remaining an independent and powerful political force.

As Kenya's political class begins the intricate dance of forming alliances for the 2027 contest, ODM has unequivocally positioned itself as a kingmaker. The demand for the deputy president slot is not merely a political wish but a calculated opening gambit from a party determined to shape its own destiny and honor the legacy of its founding leader by remaining at the center of Kenyan governance.