Aroko weighs in on ODM leaders Oburu and Sifuna in Ruto alliance claims
By Faith Lagat, April 28, 2026As the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) faces internal divisions, party figure Philip Aroko has suggested that senior leaders, including Oburu Odinga and Edwin Sifuna, could eventually align with President William Ruto.
Speaking during a podcast interview on April 27, 2026, Aroko said such a move would be part of a longer-term political strategy rather than an immediate shift.
“I’m telling you, at one point these people will come together and replace the current ODM singing tutor. They will come together to support the president. Watch it,” he said.
He added that the move would be forward-looking, stating, “This preparation is for future, it’s not for now. So let things fall in place. You can come, you can join a government, then you make things right the way you want them.”
Focus on future leadership
Aroko framed his remarks around leadership transition and long-term political planning, linking the potential alignment to preparations for the 2032 political landscape.
“These are people we just want the president to mentor for 2032. So that we get rid of the dynasty… We will fight dynasty and put Kenya in the right direction,” he said.
He acknowledged criticism directed at President Ruto, including claims that he is building a new political establishment, but maintained that leaders can be corrected while in office. Aroko said the focus should remain on long-term outcomes of policies and leadership decisions.
ODM divisions
Aroko’s remarks come at a time when ODM is experiencing internal divisions, with factions taking different positions on engagement with the government. One group associated with the “Linda Mwananchi” movement has shown openness to working with the administration, while another faction has maintained its opposition stance.
Aroko expressed support for leaders seen as engaging with the government and encouraged broader mobilisation efforts. “My relationship with President Ruto is not bad. The last time I talked to him was after the by-election… That is why I didn’t contest the results despite us being robbed of the victory!” he said.
He also raised concerns about how political support is expressed within the party, stating, “ODM Party’s interests and ideologies are with the Linda Mwananchi… They don’t support the president genuinely!”