Oburu Fires Back at Broad-based Govt Critics After By-elections Victory

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Oginga has praised the broad-based government arrangement, following the party’s strong performance in recent by-elections.

Speaking publicly for the first time after returning from Dubai on Saturday, November 29, Oburu criticized those who oppose the coalition government, saying that collaboration between parties is yielding real results.

Oburu was attending the wedding of Mohammed Noordin Mohamed Y. Haji, son of National Intelligence Service Director-General Noordin Haji, alongside President William Ruto and other leaders. 

During the event, he emphasized that ODM will continue working with the current government despite past disagreements.

“When Raila left, he left us in the broad-based government, and we will continue with that,” Oburu stated.

Although he did not rule out ODM presenting a candidate in the 2027 general elections, Oburu hinted that the party would likely support the current administration for a second term.

“We will work with the President until the end of this term in 2027. But from what we see now, we will plan carefully because we are united,” he added.

Oburu also acknowledged the efforts of both UDA and ODM members who participated actively in the by-elections. 

He said their teamwork helped defeat opponents who claimed the coalition was weak and ineffective.

“The people from UDA and ODM worked hard, and we defeated those who said there was no strong government,” he said.

Earlier on the same day, President Ruto praised the unity shown within the broad-based government. 

He said that teamwork among coalition members was a key reason for the by-election victories in areas like Baringo, Banisa, Malava, Magarini, Ugunja, and Kasipul.

“Those who said there is strength in unity were right. Our success comes from working together,” Ruto said.

The President thanked all those who contributed to the wins, highlighting that the collaboration between parties showed the value of political cohesion as Kenya heads toward the 2027 general elections.

Oburu’s remarks come at a time when debates around the effectiveness of the broad-based government are ongoing. 

Critics argue that the coalition benefits some leaders more than ordinary citizens, while supporters maintain that cooperation across parties helps stabilize politics and delivers results for communities.