Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders on Sunday closed ranks in a show of force against internal dissent, insisting the party’s place in government is irreversible despite simmering feuds over leadership and direction.
At a packed rally in Sameta, Kisii County, party heavyweights — including Party Leader Dr. Oburu Odinga, Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati, Chairperson Gladys Wanga, Minority Whip Junet Mohammed, Migori Governor Ochillo Ayako, and several legislators — rallied delegates and supporters in what many described as a defining moment for the party’s future.
Dr. Oburu struck a defiant tone, vowing to safeguard and advance the legacy of ODM founder Raila Odinga, while laying out a bold vision anchored on the party’s continued participation in government.
“As a party leader, I don’t want us to lose focus on the fundamentals left by our late leader Raila Odinga. ODM is no longer an opposition party — we are part of government, and our future lies in the broad-based arrangement,” Oburu said.
He maintained that while ODM remains democratic and open to criticism — even from those opposed to its leadership decisions — the party would not be distracted from its strategic course.
“We will still accommodate them,” he added, signalling a balance between firmness and inclusivity.
In a significant political moment, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, who had previously been viewed as a potential successor to Odinga, publicly backed Oburu’s leadership.
“Today, I choose to endorse Oburu based on his elder status and leadership standing,” Arati said, as he defended the party leader against internal attacks.
Arati further confirmed that ODM intends to formalise a coalition with President William Ruto’s UDA, promising that the party would enter the alliance “through the wide door” in the next elections.
Party Chairperson Gladys Wanga framed the shift as a long-overdue correction for the party’s traditional support base.
“We have been in opposition for too long. No longer will our communities be sidelined. We will belong to the next government formed by Ruto,” she declared, drawing cheers from the crowd.
Minority Whip Junet Mohammed, who has faced criticism over his role in recent party setbacks, warned that internal disputes would be conclusively addressed by the National Delegates Council (NDC).
“Dr. Oburu will be confirmed as Party Leader, and others will retain their positions. Those threatening the leadership will learn the rules,” Junet said.
The rhetoric intensified when Ruaraka MP Tom Kajwang took aim at youthful party figures he accused of being influenced by Siaya Governor James Orengo, dismissing them as “babies” attempting to undermine party unity.
Migori Governor Ochillo Ayako urged members to embrace humility and rally behind Oburu’s leadership for the sake of party cohesion and electoral strength.
Calls for unity and discipline were echoed by Nyamira County Assembly Speaker Thadeus Nyabaro and his Kisii counterpart, who urged ODM to lead with wisdom and inclusivity in keeping with Raila Odinga’s political legacy.
As internal debates continue, Sunday’s show of unity signalled ODM’s determination to settle its differences internally while positioning itself firmly within the centre of power.
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