Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has declared that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) remains “the party of the future”, even as internal divisions and emerging factional battles continue to raise questions about unity within the party.

Taking to his official X account on Sunday, May 17, 2026, after a series of political engagements in Nyakach and Kisumu, Oburu struck a confident tone, insisting that ODM remains focused on delivering tangible progress and defending the interests of its supporters across the country.

He also noted that he will be meeting the ODM members and delegates in Kisumu on May 31, 2026, to discuss how the party’s strategic collaboration with the ruling Kenya Kwanza government will help unlock jobs, protect devolution, and create sustainable opportunities for the Orange Party members.

“Our unwavering focus remains on delivering tangible progress. Let us meet in Kisumu on the 31st of May to discuss how this strategic collaboration will unlock jobs, protect devolution, and create sustainable opportunities for our members. ODM is the party of the Future! Tuko Tayari,” Oburu stated.

Oburu said he had concluded a successful weekend of political events in Nyakach, culminating in a Luo Nyanza delegates’ meeting in Kisumu that brought together party leaders and grassroots representatives.

He expressed gratitude to residents for what he described as an exceptionally warm reception and strong participation in the three-day engagement.

“What an incredible weekend of successful events across Nyakach, culminating today in a powerful Luo Nyanza delegates meeting in Kisumu,” he said.

Cost of living concerns

The ODM leader also acknowledged rising public frustration over the cost of living, singling out fuel prices as a major burden affecting households and businesses.

“We deeply feel the weight of the current cost of living. The continuous hike in fuel prices is a heavy burden on every household,” he said.

Oburu added that the matter had already been formally raised within government structures, including discussions involving John Mbadi, who currently serves in the national executive.

He further said he would continue engaging directly with President William Ruto in search of immediate interventions to cushion citizens.

“Please know that we are fighting for you in the highest rooms. We have formally raised this critical issue within the government through Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, and I will continue to engage the President directly to find immediate ways to cushion all citizens,” he stated.

Internal ODM party tensions

Oburu’s declaration comes amid widening cracks within ODM, with emerging factions increasingly debating the party’s future direction, leadership structure, and relationship with the Kenya Kwanza administration.

The competing camps within ODM are already positioning themselves ahead of the post-2027 political transition, creating an atmosphere of quiet but growing rivalry.

The rebel faction, Linda Mwananchi, which is led by Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna, has already hinted at plans to field a presidential candidate in the upcoming 2027 general election.

Despite the tensions, Oburu, who leads the Linda Ground faction, has insisted that ODM remains united in purpose and vision.