Arati explains Oburu’s absence during ODM retreat at the Coast
By Mabonga Makhanu, May 4, 2026Kisii Governor Simba Arati has come out to explain the absence of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Odinga during the high-level 3-day party retreat being held at the coast.
While speaking to the media during the second day of the party’s retreat on Monday, May 4, 2026, Arati, who also doubles as the deputy party leader of the Orange party, explained that Oburu, who has been visibly absent for a second day, is held up somewhere and could not make it to the event.
In his absence, Arati stated that Oburu had instead sent a speech which was read during the meeting, insisting that the party leader is okay and will be joining soon.
“Our party leader could not make it to this function; he did send his speech, which has been read. You have it. He is okay; he is alright. It is just that he got committed to another function, but you will be seeing him soon.”
ODM’s 3-day retreat
This comes during the second day of the three-day retreat, which is meant to be a forum for the party to discuss unity, especially as it faces internal wrangles following the demise of its long-serving leader, Raila Odinga, as well as to lay structures for its future as it heads into coalition talks ahead.
Earlier, during the first day, Oburu Odinga shared a statement calling for the shelving of all personal interests among party members and urging them to focus on ODM’s unity.
He emphasised that ODM’s strength has always been rooted in its diversity, but that this strength can only be meaningful if members embrace one another despite their differences.
“As we take this day to rest and reflect with our families and communities, I want to share a message that has been heavy on my heart regarding the future of our great nation and our party, ODM. Our strength has always been our diversity, but that strength is only realised when we embrace each other. We can disagree on policy without ever disregarding our shared purpose and humanity,” Oburu’s statement read in part.
Party policy
Oburu noted that disagreements on policy should never translate into disregard for shared purpose or humanity. He urged fellow leaders to rise above personal ambitions and instead work towards a common goal that prioritises the needs of the people and the long-term stability of the party.
He further stressed that the primary focus should be on building a stable, prosperous, and united political formation that serves its supporters effectively.
The ODM leader appealed to his colleagues in leadership to exercise wisdom by prioritising the common good over individual gain, saying this would help ensure peace and mutual respect within the party going forward.