In a sharp turn that could reshape Kenya’s political landscape, Oburu Odinga has said the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will push for the Deputy President’s seat in upcoming coalition talks with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Speaking to party delegates in Mombasa on Thursday, Mr Odinga made clear that ODM intends to claim a senior position in any power-sharing deal.

“That Deputy President seat is what we are targeting very strongly,” he said.

His remarks marked a shift from earlier comments made in Kisumu, where he appeared to suggest that ODM was not pursuing the position. At the time, he had addressed Deputy President Kithure Kindiki directly, saying: “We are not going to look for less. But, deputy president, do not think that we want your seat or that we want to remove you from your position. You are our friend.”

Those words left many Kenyans unsure of ODM’s strategy. In Mombasa, Mr Odinga said he had been misunderstood.

“What I said and meant was that we have no personal hate or dislike at all with the Deputy President,” he explained. “The seat is a public office. It is negotiated politically.”

A recalibration

Mr Odinga argued that ODM’s national reach and voter base justify a significant role in any coalition arrangement.

“We deserve our fair share,” he told delegates, pointing to the party’s long-standing support across the country.

His statement suggests a recalibration of ODM’s posture as it engages with President William Ruto’s UDA in what he described as a “broad-based government” arrangement.

Mr Odinga also said that following a National Executive Council meeting in Mombasa, ODM would exit the Azimio la Umoja coalition. He maintained that the party is now aligned with the current administration and intends to remain there.

Criticism of Uhuru Kenyatta

In the same address, Mr Odinga criticised former President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of failing to protect Raila Odinga’s presidential bid in the 2022 election.

“He watched as the election was grabbed from Raila Odinga and Azimio la Umoja,” Mr Odinga alleged.

Mr Kenyatta has not publicly responded to the remarks. The 2022 election outcome was upheld by the Supreme Court, which dismissed Raila Odinga’s petition challenging President Ruto’s victory.

Mr Odinga urged the former president to stay out of ODM’s affairs. “We are asking Uhuru to leave us alone and allow ODM to do whatever it wants,” he said.

Political stakes

The declaration adds a new layer to already complex coalition negotiations. While ODM leaders argue that their electoral strength warrants a senior role, UDA officials have yet to publicly outline what positions, if any, are on the table.

Political analysts say such bargaining is common in coalition politics, particularly as alliances shift ahead of future elections. Still, openly targeting the Deputy President’s seat raises questions about how any agreement would sit with the current office holder.

For now, the talks remain fluid. What is clear is that ODM has signalled it is aiming high.