Oburu Odinga Vows to Take Gachagua to Court Over ODM Sale Claims

Oburu Odinga Vows to Take Gachagua to Court Over ODM Sale Claims

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Odinga has announced plans to pursue legal action against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over allegations that he and his party had been “bought by the State,” intensifying an already heated political standoff ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during the ODM youth convention in Nairobi, Oburu strongly dismissed the claims, terming them baseless and defamatory. He indicated that he would seek legal redress to compel those making the allegations to substantiate their remarks in court.

“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,” Oburu declared.

Although he did not directly name Gachagua in his address, the former Deputy President has in recent weeks repeatedly alleged that ODM leaders had aligned themselves with President William Ruto’s administration for undisclosed benefits.

The escalating exchange reflects growing tensions within Kenya’s shifting political alliances, particularly between ODM and factions of the United Opposition, where disagreements over strategy and leadership have become increasingly public.

Oburu, however, maintained that the party remains focused on its long-term political agenda and is not distracted by criticism from opponents.

“I do not want to talk about our opponents. They can say whatever they want to say but we are moving forward,” he stated, projecting confidence in ODM’s trajectory.

At the same time, the ODM leader defended the party’s working relationship with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), dismissing claims that the party had been weakened or absorbed.

“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,” he said, in a pointed response to critics questioning ODM’s independence.

The remarks come amid renewed debate over the nature of the so-called “broad-based” political arrangement between ODM and UDA, which has in recent months shown signs of strain. Central to the disagreement is the issue of electoral zoning ahead of the 2027 polls.

ODM has been advocating for zoning in regions it considers strongholds, a strategy aimed at minimising internal competition among allied parties. However, UDA leaders have opposed the proposal, insisting on their constitutional right to field candidates in all 47 counties.

Supporters of UDA argue that open competition is essential for strengthening democracy and ensuring voters have a wider range of choices. They have also questioned ODM’s push for zoning, suggesting it contradicts the party’s claim of being a dominant national political force.

The dispute has added a new dimension to the evolving political landscape, with leaders across the divide sharpening their rhetoric as they position themselves for the next election cycle.

Gachagua, speaking at a rally in Kiambu County on Saturday, April 18, reiterated his claims, alleging that the ruling administration had a broader strategy targeting ODM’s political influence.

“The ODM that used to defend Kenyans has now been bought by Ruto from Gladys Wanga and Oburu Odinga,” he claimed. “I told the people of ODM that Ruto will finish your party.”

Such statements have further deepened divisions, drawing sharp reactions from ODM leaders who have dismissed the claims as politically motivated.

Political analysts suggest that the legal threat by Oburu could mark a significant escalation, potentially shifting the confrontation from the political arena to the courts. They note that defamation cases involving high-profile leaders often attract widespread public attention and could influence political narratives.

As Kenya moves closer to the 2027 General Election, the unfolding dispute underscores the fragile nature of emerging alliances and the high stakes involved in shaping the country’s political future.

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Oburu Odinga Vows to Take Gachagua to Court Over ODM Sale Claims