Building on recent party affirmations of its constitution, ODM leader Dr Oburu Odinga has declared himself the presidential candidate for 2027 if the party contests independently. The statement has fueled controversy, with youth leader Kasmuel McOure accusing the media team of misreporting to ridicule him.
Dr Oburu Odinga, leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), reiterated the party's constitutional provision—previously highlighted by figures like Suna East MP Junet Mohammed—that the leader automatically becomes the presidential flagbearer, during his New Year message in Diani, Kwale County, on January 1, 2026. He positioned 2026 as crucial for deciding whether ODM contests the 2027 elections alone or allies with others, stating: “Of course, if we are going it alone, I want to make it absolutely clear that our constitution already has a presidential candidate. That presidential candidate is none other than the party leader.”
Oburu noted ODM's loose partnership with the Kenya Kwanza government, without full commitment, and plans to announce its stance by end-2026. He mourned his brother, former leader Raila Odinga, and expressed uncertainty over the 10-point government agreement.
The remarks drew swift backlash: On January 2, ODM youth leader Kasmuel McOure slammed the party's media team for 'deliberately framed' misreporting to ridicule Oburu, calling it a constitutional matter, not personal. McOure also criticized Secretary General Edwin Sifuna for neglecting the constitution, alleging his faction plans a new party launch in March 2026, and demanded his resignation. This underscores deepening internal rifts as ODM restructures its strong grassroots base for 2027.