Senator Osotsi says ODM must field a Presidential candidate, urges Oburu to listen to others

Speaking on the party’s future following the demise of longtime leader Raila Odinga, Osotsi emphasized that the party remains a powerhouse with several capable leaders ready to take the mantle.

Osotsi recalled a meeting of Members of Parliament along Mombasa Road where the former Prime Minister explicitly questioned the narrative that ODM would not have a candidate.

"Baba asked us, 'Who told you ODM will support someone else? Who told you that in 2027 ODM won't have a candidate?'" Osotsi remarked. "Now that Baba has passed, we must honor that vision."

The Senator dismissed claims that the party lacks a formidable successor. He pointed to himself, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino as examples of individuals capable of seeking the nation’s highest office.

Central to Osotsi’s argument is the 10-point agenda signed between Raila Odinga and President William Ruto during the formation of the broad-based government. He insisted that these points specifically regarding electoral justice and police accountability cannot be ignored.

He demanded that the families of young protesters killed by police in be compensated, and officers involved prosecuted. 

Osotsi reiterated the need for the "truth" regarding the last election to be made public, stating, "The truth must be told."

In a direct message to ODM party leader Oburu Oginga, the Senator urged the current party leadership to emulate Raila’s consultative style. He warned that ignoring the voices of the rank-and-file members could lead to the party's downfall.

"We have no problem with our leader Oburu Oginga, but he must listen to people's views," Osotsi said. "When there was a problem, Baba would gather everyone and listen. If you ignore what the people are saying, you cause destruction within the party."

Osotsi emphasized the need for a unified front between the Luhya and Luo communities, describing their cooperation as vital for the party’s strength heading into the next election cycle.