The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is facing growing internal turmoil following the death of its long-time leader, Raila Odinga. Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi has publicly stated that the party is not ready to field a presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election, citing a lack of leadership capacity within its ranks.
Speaking during a church service in Kanyaluo Ward, Homa Bay County, Atandi said Raila Odinga did not prepare a successor capable of challenging President William Ruto. “There is nobody in ODM who can run for president as at now because Raila Odinga did not prepare anyone to run for president,” he said.
Atandi dismissed claims by some party members that ODM was ready to present a presidential candidate, accusing them of sowing division within the party. He emphasized that the party’s focus should instead be on rebuilding its strength and fostering unity, possibly through cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“Some of these leaders claiming Raila did not endorse Ruto are tiny leaders. ODM is not ready for 2027. William Ruto was once part of ODM, and we are now engaging our former members to help rejuvenate the party,” he added.
The MP, who also chairs the National Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee, warned ODM members opposed to a coalition with Kenya Kwanza to leave the party. “If you think you can run for president, do it through your own party. ODM will move on without you,” he stated.
Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo backed Atandi’s sentiments, declaring that the Luo community remains politically aligned with President Ruto. He dismissed Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya’s attempts to influence the region’s political direction, labeling him an outsider.
“When the people’s president passed on, he left us in Canaan with William Ruto,” Odhiambo said. “Luos are united behind President Ruto.”
The remarks underscore the growing ideological split within ODM as it struggles to chart its path in the post-Raila era.
