Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Odinga has dismissed reports suggesting that his party has suspended coalition talks with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), terming the claims as misleading and baseless.
Speaking in Kisumu on Friday, April 17, Oburu clarified that contrary to speculation, no formal negotiations have taken place between ODM and UDA, and therefore there is nothing to suspend.
The ODM leader explained that although there is goodwill between his party and UDA, the process of forming a coalition has not even begun. He noted that no negotiation teams have been constituted to initiate formal discussions.
“I am in a good relationship with the president, who is the leader of UDA. We cannot stop what has started. Our negotiations with UDA have not started. We have not even formed the negotiating teams,” Oburu stated.
The clarification comes amid widespread reports claiming that ODM’s Central Committee had halted talks with UDA following alleged disagreements between the two political formations.
At the same time, Oburu took issue with what he described as attempts by some UDA leaders to encroach on ODM strongholds, warning that such actions could undermine any potential future cooperation.
He urged William Ruto, who leads UDA, to rein in members of his party, insisting that mutual respect between political partners is essential if any coalition is to be formed ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“We do not want to compete with people we are going into partnership with. But the president should discipline some of the officials of his party,” he said.
Oburu also addressed internal party matters, particularly speculation about potential presidential candidates within ODM. He dismissed such discussions, maintaining that the party’s constitution clearly outlines its position on presidential nominations.
According to him, the ODM constitution designates the party leader as the presidential candidate should the party opt to field one in the upcoming election.
“I want to make it absolutely clear that our constitution already has a presidential candidate for our party, and that presidential candidate is clearly stated in the constitution,” he said.
He further warned that any member harbouring presidential ambitions within ODM should consider seeking opportunities elsewhere if they are not aligned with the party’s established structure.
The remarks highlight the growing political activity and positioning among parties as the country gradually shifts focus towards the 2027 General Election.
 leader Oburu Odinga has dismissed reports suggesting that his party has suspended coalition talks with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), terming the claims as misleading and baseless.){kind=link}