Busia Governor Paul Otiuoma has affirmed the region’s allegiance to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and its new leader, Oburu Oginga.

Otuoma, who doubles as the region’s ODM branch chairman, made the declaration during the party’s Linda Ground tour in Malaba, Busia County, on Saturday, January 17, 2026.

He opined that the region will not go back on its loyalty to the party, expressing his solidarity with the party’s top organs’ decision to make Oburu its new leader after the demise of Raila Odinga.

Firmly behind ODM

“Here in Busia, we will stand by the party leader. We will not betray the ideals of this party. When the party organs, through the Central Committee and the National Governing Council, approved Oburu as the party leader, we fully supported that decision,” he stated.

Otuoma expressed optimism that Oburu is capable of steering and steadying the ODM ship. 

Support for Oburu

“We know Oburu is capable of uniting us, and we are ready to also protect him as we did with Raila Odinga. We say thank you for choosing Busia as the venue for this rally,” he added.

His support for the new leader was also echoed by youthful politician Boyd Were, the Kasipul lawmaker, and Youth League member Kasmuel McOure.

“Dr. Oburu, you have our blessings as the youth league members. We ask you to continue with your agenda for the party, such as the implementation of the 10-point agenda and others,” McOure stated.

The remarks come after Oburu led a contingent of the party to Malaba for the party forum.

Oburu vows to stay put

During the function, Oburu pledged to continue in his role as the new leader amid the differences occasioned by his ascent to the role.

He declared his readiness to take the reins of the party affairs as he urged the grassroots leaders to support him in his new role.

“Raila is now gone, but he left us with a big party called ODM. This party can not fall because our leader is gone. As the members, you are here, and having given me the responsibility to lead, I will soldier on without fear,” he announced.

“I am here to ask for your support as the grassroots delegates from Busia. If you support me, I will continue with your assurance, and I promise that we will lead by observing all the party rules,” he added.

The Siaya Senator was unanimously ratified as the new party during the ODM at 20 celebrations held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in Mombasa.

His appointment followed the passing of Raila Odinga on Wednesday, October 2025.