Kenya’s political landscape has taken a dramatic twist after the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) endorsed Dr. Oburu Odinga to vie for the presidency in 2027, setting up what could be one of the most intriguing political battles in recent history —Oburu Odinga versus President William Ruto.
The announcement was made during a high-level ODM meeting held on October 27, 2025, where top party officials threw their weight behind Oburu as the party’s preferred presidential candidate.
The move, according to insiders, was both a strategic and emotional decision — a continuation of the Odinga family’s legacy that has shaped Kenya’s politics for over five decades.
Sources within the party confirmed that Oburu, who has been serving as the acting ODM leader, received overwhelming support from the Central Management Committee, which resolved to rally the party machinery behind his candidature.
“Oburu Odinga represents the spirit of resilience, reform, and justice that ODM was built upon,” said a senior ODM official who attended the closed-door session. “He has the political maturity and national outlook needed to carry forward Raila Odinga’s dream and challenge President Ruto in 2027.”
The endorsement marks a turning point for the Orange party, coming months after the passing of Raila Odinga — the iconic opposition figure who defined Kenya’s multi-party democracy.
For many supporters, Oburu’s entry into the presidential race is seen as both a tribute to Raila’s legacy and a symbol of political continuity.
Political analysts, however, view the move as bold but risky. “ODM’s decision to front Oburu against Ruto shows the party’s confidence in its grassroots base, but it will have to work hard to re-energize its younger supporters,” said political commentator Wanjohi Kamau. “The 2027 contest could be a generational battle — experience versus energy.”
Reactions from across the political divide have been swift. ODM loyalists celebrated the decision, calling it a new dawn for the Orange movement, while critics dismissed it as a “family succession” that may fail to attract new voters.
Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions, with “Oburu Odinga” trending as Kenyans debate whether the veteran politician can withstand Ruto’s formidable campaign machinery.
Despite the skepticism, ODM insiders say the endorsement is just the beginning of a well-coordinated national campaign that will soon kick off with regional consultative meetings across the country.
The party hopes to consolidate its traditional strongholds while reaching out to young and undecided voters.
As the political drums for 2027 begin to sound, Kenya now braces for a potential showdown between President William Ruto and Dr. Oburu Odinga — a contest that promises to test alliances, endurance, and the direction of Kenya’s democracy.
Whether Oburu will manage to unite the Orange base, win over new supporters, and finally turn the Odinga dream into reality remains one of the most watched stories in Kenya’s unfolding political scene.
