ODM leader and Siaya Senator, Dr Oburu Oginga, has issued a stern warning to political aspirants against seeking undue favoritism or attempting to secure the Orange party’s nomination ticket through the “back door.”

Speaking in Siaya during a fundraiser for the KUPPET Siaya County branch, the veteran lawmaker made it clear that anyone seeking an elective post under the ODM banner must earn the mandate directly from the electorate.

“I want to make it clear that nobody should hang on my coat. I will not lift anybody’s hand in the name of endorsing them for any elective post,” Dr Oginga stated firmly.

He emphasized that popularity on the ground, rather than proximity to party leadership, would be the sole deciding factor for the 2027 race.

“Those who intend to seek elective posts through the ODM ticket must first meet the people, consult them, and then proceed to the party nominations,” the Senator added.

“This time around, the ODM ticket will not be issued from Nairobi. Instead, the decision will be made right here at the grassroots, not at the headquarters.”

Dr Oginga’s pronouncement comes as political campaigns gradually gain momentum across the country.

While the ODM party has historically enjoyed undisputed dominance in the Nyanza region, the political landscape is experiencing new dynamics, notably with the emergence of the Linda Mwananchi movement, a faction associated with ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.