Oburu Assures Kindiki as ODM Denies Eyeing Deputy President Seat; NYOTA Fund Disbursed in Kisumu
Politics Updated: 02 February 2026 17:37 EAT
President William Samoei Ruto poses for a photo with ODM leader Oburu Odinga during the Kisumu NYOTA fund disbursements
Senator Oburu Odinga, a senior leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has dismissed claims that the party is seeking to unseat Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. Oburu made the remarks on Monday during a public engagement in Kisumu County, emphasizing that ODM’s political focus is not on personal positions.
The comments came amid speculation over ODM’s possible ambitions in ongoing coalition discussions ahead of the 2027 General Election. Political analysts had suggested that the deputy presidency could be a bargaining point between ODM and President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Oburu reassured Kindiki that his position as Deputy President remains secure, adding that ODM is committed to national unity and cooperation rather than targeting specific government offices. “We are not eyeing any positions belonging to other leaders,” Oburu said during the Kisumu event.
The event drew top county and national leaders, alongside community members and youth groups. Oburu used the platform to highlight ODM’s focus on equitable representation and fair allocation of resources for citizens.
In recent months, media speculation had claimed that ODM might seek the deputy presidency as part of a power-sharing deal. Oburu’s clarification seeks to quell fears of political infighting between the parties.
Local media in Kisumu reported that Oburu also reiterated ODM’s commitment to engaging in constructive dialogue with UDA, emphasizing that any coalition would be based on principles rather than personal ambitions.
Observers noted that Oburu’s remarks follow earlier statements in November 2025, where he hinted that ODM would push for a significant position in any pre-election coalition, though he did not specify which.
Political commentators say that Oburu’s intervention helps ease tension among political families in the region, particularly between ODM and UDA supporters who had grown concerned over reports of internal rivalry.
Meanwhile, in Kisumu, the national government launched the NYOTA (National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement) Fund disbursement program at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium. The initiative targets youth empowerment through business grants and skill development.
Thousands of youths from Kisumu, Siaya, and Homa Bay counties attended the event, receiving support under the NYOTA program. Beneficiaries are being linked with mentorship and savings schemes aimed at fostering financial stability.
President William Ruto and Deputy President Kindiki were present to oversee the distribution of the funds. The government emphasized that the initiative aligns with broader youth employment and entrepreneurship policies.
Kindiki highlighted the significance of collaboration between political leaders for development, noting that joint efforts between UDA and ODM enhance national stability. He encouraged youth to actively participate in the program to maximize its impact.
The NYOTA program, launched in 2025, is part of a larger effort to reduce unemployment among young Kenyans and promote economic self-reliance through entrepreneurship.
Oburu’s reassurances and the NYOTA fund rollout occurred simultaneously, signaling a blend of political diplomacy and social development efforts in Kisumu. Leaders underscored the importance of political cooperation in tandem with economic empowerment.
Political analysts suggest that ODM’s clarification regarding the deputy presidency may be aimed at maintaining public confidence while ensuring that coalition discussions with UDA remain productive and transparent.
As the day concluded, youth beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the NYOTA support, while party officials continued to stress that political discussions are ongoing and focused on collective national interest rather than individual gain.
The Kisumu engagements mark a significant moment for ODM, UDA, and youth development programs, reflecting a careful balance between politics and social initiatives ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
Tags: Editor's Pick Signs Media Kenya Limited Kithure Kindiki Oburu Oburu Odinga President William Ruto William Samoei Ruto NYOTA Odm Uda
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