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Oburu Odinga, leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has declared his intention to sue former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for allegations of being ‘bought by the State.’ Speaking at an ODM youth convention in Nairobi, Odinga dismissed claims that his party had been overtaken by UDA, asserting ODM’s strength and future in Kenyan politics ahead of the 2027 elections.
Africa-Press – Kenya. Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Odinga has announced plans to take legal action against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over claims that he had been ‘bought by the State’.
Speaking during the ODM youth convention in Nairobi, Oburu said he would take legal action against some members of the United Opposition for making unsubstantiated allegations.
“Even if they abuse us, we are still moving forward. But one of them claims Oburu has been bought. I will take him to court to explain how much Oburu has been bought for. I cannot be bought,” the ODM boss said.
While reiterating that he was unbothered by his critics, Oburu further stated that ODM’s decision to back UDA was warranted, and the party would be in power come 2027.
“I do not want to talk about our opponents. They can say whatever they want to say but we are moving forward,” Oburu added.
On claims that President William Ruto’s UDA had swallowed the ODM party, Oburu dismissed the claims, stating that ODM is the biggest party in the country and therefore cannot be swallowed by any other party.
“Our party will grow from strength to strength. It is too big to be swallowed. If you try to swallow it your stomach will burst.”
Though he did not mention Gachagua by name, the former DP has on many occasions stated that President William Ruto had bought Oburu and the entire ODM party.
During one of his rallies in Kiambu County on Saturday, April 18, Gachagua sensationally claimed that President Ruto had a broader agenda of “finishing ODM”.
“The ODM that used to defend Kenyans has now been bought by Ruto from Gladys Wanga and Oburu Odinga. I told the people of ODM that Ruto will finish your party,” he stated.
The statements come in the wake of a looming crack within the broad-based arrangement, with ODM and UDA publicly disagreeing on the path the coalition should take ahead of the 2027 general election.
ODM has been pushing for zoning in areas considered its strongholds, while UDA is threatening to field candidates across all 47 counties, noting that such an action promotes democracy.
UDA argues that there should be no limitation of any party to file candidates anywhere in the country, asking why the ODM party is afraid of it, believing it’s the greatest and biggest party, as it has always claimed.
The political landscape in Kenya has been characterized by shifting alliances and rivalries, particularly between major parties like ODM and UDA. The ODM, historically a significant player in Kenyan politics, has faced challenges from UDA, which has gained traction under President William Ruto’s leadership. The tensions between these parties reflect broader issues of political loyalty and the influence of state power in party dynamics, especially as the country approaches the 2027 general elections. Legal disputes and public accusations are common in this charged environment, as leaders seek to assert their positions and defend their reputations.
