The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) marked its 20th anniversary in Mombasa with a show of unity, but internal divisions emerged over the party’s future direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.
During the celebrations, ODM Deputy Party Leader Dr. Oburu Oginga reaffirmed the party’s commitment to remaining part of Kenya’s broad-based government, as Raila Odinga had intended before his passing. However, he noted that the party would reassess its political strategy in 2027.
“Mimi najua hakuna siku moja nimewahi kusaliti ndugu yangu, Raila Amollo Odinga…Sisi tumesema ikifika 2027 tutaangalia ni nani tutaongea na yeye ama tutaenda peke yetu. We don’t cross the bridge until we reach the bridge,” Dr. Oginga said, emphasizing that ODM’s current alliance will remain intact until the next elections.
Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati supported this position, urging party members to drop divisive slogans such as “one-term” and “two-term” while warning dissidents against undermining ODM’s unity.
Despite the show of solidarity, differences among senior leaders were apparent. Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho cautioned against attempts to sideline longstanding party members, stressing his commitment to defending ODM.
ODM Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir also engaged in internal debate, responding to remarks by Siaya Governor James Orengo regarding Raila’s intervention in land issues in the Coast region.
Meanwhile, Raila’s daughter Winnie Odinga, along with Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, advocated for greater public involvement in determining the party’s future. Winnie suggested holding a National Delegates Conference (NDC) to allow members to decide who should manage ODM’s relationships with the government going forward.
Babu Owino further warned that ODM must stand with the people, noting that the party should be ready to take to the streets if the government fails to honor its commitments.
As ODM navigates its path to 2027, the party faces the challenge of balancing loyalty to Raila Odinga’s legacy with evolving political realities, while managing internal factions and public expectations.
