Oburu Urges David Ochieng to Join ODM Ahead of 2027 Siaya Governor Race
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, who attended the fundraising event, called on leaders in the region to support the broad-based political arrangement championed by the government.
Photo: Courtesy.
By Margaret Naishorua
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Deputy Party Leader Oburu Odinga has urged Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG) leader David Ochieng to dissolve his party and join ODM as political alignments begin to take shape ahead of Kenya’s 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) fundraising event in Siaya Town, Oburu said Ochieng would receive the party’s full backing if he joined ODM and sought its ticket for the Siaya gubernatorial race.
“I want to ask David Ochieng to come and join ODM. We will receive him with two hands and ensure he becomes the governor of Siaya. I do not know what is so sweet in MDG that Ochieng cannot leave it for ODM,” Oburu said.
The remarks come as political parties begin positioning themselves for the 2027 elections, with ODM yet to settle on a candidate to succeed Siaya Gov. James Orengo, who is serving his first term.
Political analysts say the contest is expected to be highly competitive, with several leaders from different parts of the county expressing interest in the seat. They note that regional balance has traditionally played a significant role in determining political support in Siaya.
ODM has remained the dominant political party in Siaya for years, consistently winning most elective positions in the county. Political observers say the party’s nomination process is likely to play a decisive role in determining its gubernatorial candidate.
Oburu assured party supporters that ODM would conduct transparent and credible nominations, urging aspirants to seek support directly from voters rather than relying on endorsements from senior party officials.
“This time around, nobody will hang on my coat. Every aspirant must go to the people and seek their mandate,” he said.
He also appealed to leaders who had left ODM following previous nomination disputes to return to the party, saying the party remained open to welcoming back former members.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, who attended the fundraising event, called on leaders in the region to support the broad-based political arrangement championed by the government.
Despite Oburu’s appeal, Ochieng indicated that he intends to remain in the Movement for Democracy and Growth and contest the Siaya governorship on the party’s ticket.
His response signals that the race to succeed Orengo is likely to attract candidates from multiple political parties, setting the stage for a closely contested gubernatorial election in 2027.
With more than a year before political parties conduct nominations, the contest is expected to intensify as aspirants seek to build alliances and consolidate support across Siaya County.
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