Siaya Senator and ODM leader Oburu Oginga has expressed interest in becoming a running mate in the 2027 General Election, while ruling out any personal political confrontation with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
Speaking during an interview with TV47 Habari Ukumbi wa Siasa show host Elizabeth Mutuku, Oburu said ODM was interested in negotiating for the Deputy President position as part of political arrangements ahead of the 2027 election.
“I am expecting to be a running mate,” Oburu said.
He, however, praised Kindiki’s performance in office, stressing that ODM’s interest in the position should not be interpreted as an attack on the current Deputy President.
“We have no problem with DP Kindiki. He is doing a good job,” Oburu said.
According to the ODM leader, the party’s position is based on negotiations over political positions that will take shape after the 2027 election.
“We are negotiating positions which will be after the elections,” he said.
Oburu argued that the Deputy President position would be open for negotiation after the conclusion of Kindiki’s current term.
“ODM wants Deputy, not against Kindiki, but because the seat will be vacant,” he said.
He nevertheless maintained that performance in the current position should not automatically determine who occupies the office in the next administration.
“Doing a good job is not the only qualification. As ODM, we can do much better,” Oburu stated.
Why ODM is backing Ruto in 2027
Oburu also explained why ODM had opted not to field its own presidential candidate in the 2027 election, saying the party was still dealing with the sudden death of its former leader, Raila Odinga.
“We did not go for the Presidency because we lost our leader without notice. It was so shocking,” he said.
He added that the party needed time to prepare a suitable presidential candidate, saying ODM intends to produce its own candidate for the 2032 election.
“I was not ready even to be the leader of ODM, I just found myself,” Oburu said.
For the 2027 election, he reiterated that ODM had resolved to support President William Ruto.
“2027, we have said we are supporting President William Ruto,” he stated.
