Oburu Odinga Threatens Legal Action Against Gachagua Over ‘State Capture’ Claims

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Odinga has announced plans to sue former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over allegations that he had been “bought by the State.”

Speaking during an ODM youth convention in Nairobi, Oburu dismissed the claims as baseless and challenged Gachagua, along with others making similar assertions, to prove them in court.

“I will take him to court to explain how much Oburu has been bought. I cannot be bought,” he declared, vowing to defend his reputation through legal means.

Oburu also brushed off criticism directed at him and the Orange Democratic Movement over its participation in the broad-based government, maintaining that the party remains strong and independent.

He rejected claims that the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), led by President William Ruto, had absorbed ODM, insisting the party is too large and influential to be undermined.

“Our party cannot be swallowed. It will continue to grow from strength to strength,” Oburu stated.

The remarks come after Gachagua, during a rally in Kiambu County, accused Ruto of “buying” ODM leaders, including Oburu, in a bid to weaken the party ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The escalating war of words highlights growing tensions within the broad-based political arrangement, with ODM and UDA increasingly clashing over strategy, including disagreements on zoning and candidate placement across the country.

While ODM has pushed for zoning in its strongholds, UDA has maintained it will field candidates in all 47 counties, arguing that open competition is key to strengthening democracy.