According to reports circulating on Sunday Oburu indicated that ODM would not rush into fielding its own candidate against the incumbent. He emphasized that any support extended to Ruto must come through structured negotiations rather than automatic endorsement.
"We have decided that the ODM party will not field a presidential candidate. Therefore we will support President William Ruto for a second term," Oburu reportedly stated. He stressed that ODM must fully understand what the party stands to gain from such an arrangement.
This latest position reflects the continuing evolution of Oburu's stance since assuming leadership following Raila Odinga's passing. He has repeatedly emphasized structured dialogue over rushed political commitments throughout recent months.
The Siaya Senator has previously given mixed signals regarding ODM's ultimate direction ahead of the crucial election. At different points he has suggested the party could field its own candidate demand the deputy presidency or fully back Ruto instead.
Edwin Sifuna has maintained a different position insisting ODM has not officially settled on backing Ruto. This has created visible friction within the party regarding its true 2027 strategy going forward.
Analysts view Oburu's latest comments as part of ongoing efforts to secure maximum bargaining power for ODM within broader coalition talks. The party continues emphasizing equitable power sharing and zoning arrangements with UDA.
Party leaders including Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang have defended the ongoing partnership citing accelerated development benefits for the Nyanza region. They argue the arrangement moves the party beyond old politics toward tangible development gains.
However internal divisions persist with some leaders including Sifuna and Governor James Orengo expressing reservations about deepening ties with the ruling party. This has fueled speculation regarding potential fractures within the historically united Orange party.
Formal coalition talks between ODM and UDA are expected to conclude by the end of the year according to earlier statements. Attention now shifts toward voter registration efforts and eventual nomination processes across various regions.
As Kenya edges closer to 2027 Oburu's evolving position continues shaping conversations around the country's shifting political alliances. Whether this ultimately translates into full ODM backing for Ruto remains something many will watch closely in coming months.
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