Speaking during a meeting of ODM aspirants from Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, and Migori counties on May 25, 2026, Oburu dismissed criticism of the zoning discussions, saying such arrangements have been common in Kenyan politics for years.
How the Zoning Plan Would Work
According to Oburu, regions where ODM enjoys overwhelming support would be reserved for ODM candidates, while coalition partner UDA would refrain from fielding candidates in those areas.
“What we are saying is that this region of ours is zoned for ODM. Where ODM is strong, like our area here, UDA will not field candidates. But nominations within ODM will still be free and fair.”
According to Oburu, regions where ODM enjoys overwhelming support would be reserved for ODM candidates, while coalition partner UDA would refrain from fielding candidates in those areas.
“What we are saying is that this region of ours is zoned for ODM. Where ODM is strong, like our area here, UDA will not field candidates. But nominations within ODM will still be free and fair.”
He emphasized that zoning does not mean handing seats to specific individuals and insisted that party nominations would remain competitive and democratic.
“Aspirants will still compete freely within ODM. Other parties are also free to bring candidates, but within the coalition, there are negotiations going on.”
Preparing for Future Power-Sharing
Oburu said the objective of the strategy is to strengthen ODM’s bargaining power in future coalition negotiations by maximizing the number of elected leaders the party can deliver.
“When negotiations come, you must show how many MPs, MCAs, and presidential votes you have brought to the table.”
He warned that failure by ODM supporters to mobilize voters and win elective seats could weaken the party’s influence in future government arrangements.
The veteran politician also criticized the growing influence of money in elections, urging aspirants to pursue leadership for public service rather than personal enrichment.
“If you want to get into politics to make money, you will really regret it. Politics is about serving the people faithfully.”
He argued that excessive spending during campaigns has contributed to the election of leaders who may not be best suited for public office.
“It is money that is spoiling the politics of this country. It is making people elect those who do not deserve leadership positions.”
With the next General Election drawing closer, Oburu assured aspirants that ODM nominations would be transparent and member-driven.
He also challenged current leaders to focus on delivering development projects over the remaining period before the election, saying performance and service delivery would ultimately determine voter support in 2027.
The remarks provide one of the clearest confirmations yet that ODM and UDA are discussing electoral cooperation in some regions, a development that continues to generate debate among supporters and opponents of the broad-based political arrangement.
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