Oburu Odinga Break Silence After ODM Allegedly Order Members to Stop Campaign for Ruto, Reveals This

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Oginga has dismissed reports claiming that talks with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) over a possible 2027 coalition have been suspended, insisting discussions remain at a very early, preparatory stage.

Speaking in Kisumu after meeting Nyanza church leaders on Friday, April 17, 2026, Oburu said no formal negotiations have been halted and urged the public to ignore speculation circulating in political spaces.

He added that discussions around the anticipated talks are still being structured, with a technical team currently drafting the agenda that will later be made public once finalised.

The Siaya Senator maintained that what is being discussed publicly does not represent formal positions, saying most of it amounts to people thinking aloud rather than official party communication.

However, tensions between ODM and UDA have been visible in recent days, with disagreements emerging over expected negotiations and key issues such as zoning arrangements for strongholds.

ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga has maintained that zoning remains a non-negotiable condition for any 2027 partnership with UDA, insisting each party must respect its political strongholds.

In response, UDA secretary general Hassan Omar has insisted the party will field candidates nationwide without restrictions, rejecting any proposals that would limit its participation in ODM areas.

Meanwhile, the ODM Central Committee has warned UDA over what it termed as unwarranted public remarks by some senior officials, saying continued disrespect could strain the MoU between the parties.

The committee emphasized that both parties must uphold mutual respect, noting that the future of the anticipated coalition talks depends on disciplined communication and adherence to agreed political frameworks.

Political observers say the ongoing exchanges highlight early-stage bargaining challenges that often precede coalition agreements in Kenya’s competitive electoral landscape, noting that clarity on agenda and trust-building will determine whether talks progress meaningfully toward 2027 cooperation.

Weeks ahead are expected to test both parties as internal pressure, public statements, and competing demands shape the negotiation environment, with analysts warning that miscommunication could easily derail early goodwill if not carefully managed.