Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has emphasized that, according to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party constitution, the party leader automatically qualifies as the presidential candidate. She described discussions about alternative flagbearers as premature while the current party leader remains in position.
Currently, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga serves as ODM party leader, having assumed the role after the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Ruth Odinga highlighted that any change to this arrangement would require formal amendments to the party's constitution through the National Delegates Conference (NDC).
"The presidential candidate must be the party leader. Until the constitution is amended via the NDC, no other person can be considered," she said, urging party members to respect the existing rules.
However, in May 2026, Senator Oburu Oginga announced his intention to defend his Siaya Senate seat in the 2027 general elections. During the ODM Nyanza Region Aspirants Convention, he encouraged leaders to prioritize service delivery, unity, and grassroots mobilization ahead of the polls.
Notably, Oburu declared that ODM will not field a presidential candidate in the 2027 general election. Instead, the party plans to support President William Ruto's re-election bid, citing concluded negotiations for a pre-election coalition agreement with the President's team.
Oburu praised President Ruto's inclusive approach, noting that although ODM did not initially support his government, members were incorporated into it. He said, "We didn't vote for this government, but we were incorporated through the backdoor because Ruto loved us." He added that ODM leaders had evaluated various presidential aspirants and found all except President Ruto lacking.
ODM elected leaders in the Nyanza region have urged supporters to await guidance from Senator Oburu regarding the party’s future political direction and coalition arrangements.
