The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has signalled its intention to push for the position of Deputy President in anticipated pre-election negotiations with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), underscoring growing political manoeuvres within Kenya’s evolving power structure.

Party leader Oburu Oginga made the remarks during a consultative meeting at the Siaya County Assembly chambers, where he dismissed claims by some government figures that the Deputy President’s seat is beyond negotiation.

Dr Oginga said ODM would enter talks determined to secure its political interests within the broad-based government framework, maintaining that no position should be considered off-limits in negotiations.

“We are going to negotiate firmly and comprehensively. The Deputy Presidency is among the issues on the table,” he told delegates, adding that the party’s priority is to safeguard its supporters’ long-term political future.

His remarks come amid shifting alliances and quiet consultations between key political actors ahead of the next electoral cycle. ODM has been part of a broad-based government arrangement initiated by the late Raila Odinga, a framework Dr Oginga said the party remains committed to.

He urged members of the Luo community to maintain unity, arguing that cohesion would strengthen the party’s bargaining power in what is expected to be a highly competitive political season.

Also addressing the gathering, George Okode, Speaker of the Siaya County Assembly, affirmed the support of Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) for Dr Oginga’s leadership, describing the meeting as part of broader strategic preparations. 

The session brought together ODM leadership and county legislators in what party insiders described as early positioning ahead of formal political engagements.

Dr Oginga also called on supporters to attend the upcoming “Linda Ground” rally scheduled for Saturday, which will double as his homecoming event following his election as party leader.

The rally is expected to draw large crowds, as ODM seeks to consolidate its base and project influence at a time when political realignments continue to reshape Kenya’s governing landscape.