Senator Osotsi:ODM must field a Presidential candidate in 2027

Vihiga Senator and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Co-Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi has issued a strong demand for the party to field its own presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election. 

Speaking on February 2, 2026, following the passing of longtime leader Raila Odinga, Osotsi’s remarks highlighted a growing rift within the party’s leadership.

Honouring Raila’s Vision, Osotsi recalled a meeting where Raila Odinga explicitly questioned the idea of ODM not having a candidate, stating that the party must honour that vision rather than shelving its ambitions to support President William Ruto.

Osotsi urged the acting party leader, Oburu Oginga, to adopt Raila’s consultative leadership style and listen to the views of rank-and-file members. He warned that ignoring these voices could lead to the party’s “downfall” or “destruction”.

He dismissed claims that the party lacks a formidable successor, naming himself, James Orengo (Siaya Governor), and Babu Owino (Embakasi East MP) as capable contenders for the presidency.

The Senator accused a “clique” of running the party like a “private kiosk” and claimed that major decisions are being influenced by State House. This follows his earlier criticism of Oburu and Junet Mohamed for allegedly skipping reconciliation meetings called by Ida Odinga.

Osotsi insisted that ODM should prioritise its 10-point agenda—including electoral justice and police accountability—over premature coalition-making with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). 

Oburu Oginga has previously maintained that the ODM constitution names the party leader as the de-facto presidential candidate if the party runs independently, a stance that has further intensified friction with the party’s younger leadership.

By Anthony Solly