What Oburu Odinga Did To Sakaja Hours After Ditching Ruto’s UDA & Joined ODM

ODM party leader Oburu Oginga has welcomed Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja into the Orange Democratic Movement after the county boss officially ditched the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Oburu hosted Sakaja at his residence on Monday evening, November 2, 2026, shortly after the governor completed his formal entry into the opposition party.

The former prime minister’s brother expressed delight at receiving Sakaja, describing his decision to join ODM as a welcome development as the party continues expanding its national membership.

In a message shared after their meeting, Oburu said he was pleased to host the Nairobi governor and officially receive him into the Orange party.

He also extended a warm welcome to Sakaja, telling him, “Karibu sana to ODM.”

Sakaja’s political switch was formalised earlier on Monday during an event at Chungwa House, ODM’s headquarters in Nairobi.

He was received by senior party officials, including Deputy Party Leaders Simba Arati and Hassan Joho, National Chairperson Gladys Wanga and other leaders.

The governor’s departure from UDA came after weeks of uncertainty surrounding his political future. His appearance at the Linda Mwananchi rally at Jacaranda Grounds on Saturday, October 31, had further fuelled speculation about his next political move.

Addressing supporters during the gathering, Sakaja asked Nairobi residents to advise him on the political party they wanted him to join. He subsequently indicated his willingness to associate with ODM.

He also cited his relationship with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whom he regarded as a father figure, as part of the background to his political decision.

Sakaja’s arrival comes as political parties reposition themselves ahead of the August 2027 General Election. The Nairobi governor is expected to seek a second term, with his new party affiliation placing ODM at the centre of his re-election plans.

https://peopledaily.digital/inside-politics/oburu-welcomes-sakaja-to-odm-following-uda-defection

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