'Can I not be number two?' Oburu makes pitch for Deputy President role
Oburu Oginga, a leader in the ODM party, has publicly expressed his interest in becoming Kenya's Deputy President as his party aligns with President William Ruto's re-election bid. The move highlights ongoing negotiations regarding power-sharing within the current broad-based government.
Why it matters
This reflects the shifting political alliances in Kenya ahead of the 2027 election and the complexities of maintaining a coalition government while preserving party identity.
ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga speaking on August 4, 2026, at State House, Nairobi / Screengrab
ODM leader Oburu Oginga has said he is ready to serve as Deputy President, arguing that the post remains open for negotiation as ODM backs President William Ruto's re-election.
Oburu said ODM will not field a presidential candidate and will instead support President William Ruto's re-election bid.
He, however, noted that all other positions in the anticipated political arrangement remain open for negotiation, singling out the Deputy President's seat.
"This time round, ODM will not field a candidate because we will support President William Ruto. All the other positions are negotiable, particularly number two. Don't you think I deserve to be number two? Can I not be number two?" Oburu said.
He expressed confidence in his ability to serve in the role, declaring, "Mimi nimetosha (I'm able)."
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