Oburu Odinga, the Leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party and Siaya Senator, has heightened the political tension between ODM and UDA. He firmly stated that Nyanza is an exclusive ODM stronghold, emphasizing that the ruling party has no place in the region amid ongoing discussions about the Deputy President’s position within the broader political landscape.
During a political gathering in Homa Bay County on Sunday, August 2, 2026, Oburu passionately defended ODM’s call for zoning, asserting that the party has the right to protect its traditional support bases before reaching out to other regions.
“Some may question our desire for zoning. If you oppose zoning, what alternative do you propose? We advocate for zoning because this is our territory. Homa Bay is undeniably our zone. We do not welcome UDA here in Homa Bay,” Oburu stated firmly.
Oburu reinforced that ODM’s strongholds are non-negotiable, highlighting the counties where the party has successfully elected governors, Members of Parliament, and Members of County Assembly as its rightful political domains.
“We must prioritize our strongholds, where we have our governors, MPs, and MCAs. These areas are ours by right, and we assert that in our territory, we will always assume leadership positions; there is no need for hesitation,” he added.
Oburu also called for unity among ODM’s traditional support bases, expressing the party’s intention to consolidate its influence across Western Kenya, North Eastern, Turkana, the Coast region, and Maasai areas as it fortifies its bargaining power ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“We aim to collaborate with all of ODM’s strongholds: Western, Northeastern, Turkana, Coast, and Maasai-ini. Let us unite and work together,” he declared.
His remarks come at a time of escalating tensions between ODM and UDA regarding the future of their political alliance, with ODM leaders increasingly advocating for the party to secure the Deputy President’s position if the coalition is to persist into the 2027 elections.
