Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has disclosed that the party is preparing to officially exit the Azimio coalition as political realignments intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Mombasa, Oburu said ODM had effectively distanced itself from Azimio long ago and that the formal exit would soon be completed.
Oburu’s remarks come just days after Azimio announced internal changes, including the appointment of Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka as coalition leader a role he has since accepted as the opposition reorganises for the 2027 contest.
However, Oburu dismissed the developments, terming them interference in ODM’s internal affairs and asserting that ODM was the backbone of the Azimio coalition.
“I want to condemn what I have observed, that is, the interference of other parties in our party affairs. This thing called Azimio. We are the Azimio. The strongest party in Azimio was ourselves, as ODM. There is nobody who can make decision in Azimio without the concurrence of ODM,” Oburu stated.
Political Realignments Ahead of 2027 Polls
The announcement signals a major shift in Kenya’s opposition politics. ODM has recently strengthened its engagement with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) under the broad-based government framework, a move that has sparked debate within opposition ranks.
Political analysts say ODM’s formal exit from Azimio could significantly reshape alliances and redefine opposition strategies ahead of the 2027 presidential race.
The decision also raises questions about the future of Azimio without its largest constituent party and how smaller coalition partners will reposition themselves in the evolving political landscape.
Tensions Within the Opposition
Oburu’s comments highlight growing tensions within the opposition camp, particularly over leadership and decision-making authority. His assertion that no decision in Azimio could be made without ODM underscores the party’s claim to dominance within the coalition.
As the 2027 General Election draws closer, Kenya’s political formations continue to shift, with parties recalibrating strategies, consolidating support bases, and redefining alliances in preparation for what is expected to be a highly competitive race.
ODM’s next official steps regarding its withdrawal from Azimio are now keenly awaited, as the country watches how the opposition landscape will evolve in the coming months.
