Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga Now Set to Land a Top Powerful in The Next President Ruto Government

Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has reignited debate within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after arguing that President William Ruto has deep roots in the Orange movement, making it easier for ODM leaders to work with him for the benefit of their regions.

Speaking amid growing internal disagreement over ODM’s engagement with the Kenya Kwanza administration, Oburu said President Ruto played a foundational role during the 2005 constitutional referendum that gave birth to the Orange political movement.

According to the senator, that shared political history explains why collaboration between ODM and Ruto should not be viewed as betrayal but as a strategic partnership.

“Ruto was there at the beginning of the Orange movement. He understands what ODM stands for,” Oburu said, adding that cooperation with the government presents an opportunity to unlock development projects in ODM-dominated counties that have historically felt marginalised.

His remarks come at a time when ODM leaders are sharply divided over the party’s place in the emerging broad-based government arrangement.

While some see engagement with President Ruto as a chance to influence policy and address economic hardship, others fear the party risks losing its opposition identity.

Oburu defended the engagement, saying politics should ultimately serve the people. He pointed to stalled infrastructure, health and agriculture projects in Nyanza and parts of Western Kenya, arguing that cooperation with the national government could accelerate service delivery.

However, his position has drawn criticism from sections of the party who insist ODM must prioritise constitutional reforms, accountability and protection of democratic institutions over political deals.

They argue that development should not come at the cost of weakening opposition oversight.

Political observers say Oburu’s comments reflect a broader struggle within ODM as it balances its traditional role as a protest party with the growing pressure from supporters who want tangible economic gains.

As ODM leader Raila Odinga continues consultations with party organs and allies, the debate sparked by Oburu’s remarks is expected to intensify, shaping the party’s direction in the months ahead.