Kirembe Declaration: Inside ODM key resolutions as Oburu faction tightens grip on party
By Faith Lagat, May 31, 2026Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders and supporters gathered at the Kirembe Rally in Kisumu on Sunday, May 31, 2026, where a set of resolutions was issued outlining the party’s position on unity, leadership and national governance matters.
The party emphasised regional cohesion, stating that the region is one, indivisible and united.
“The people of this region are one indivisible and united people, and any engagement, present and future, can only be through their party, ODM,” read the official ODM X post dated May 31, 2026.
ODM reaffirmed its internal leadership structure and loyalty to party leader Raila Odinga, noting that the leadership remains “steadfast under the party leader Dr Odinga” and is committed to decisions made by the SNDC, Central Committee and NEC.
The resolutions also confirmed Oburu as Party Leader, Governors Simba Arati and Abdullswamad Sharif as Deputy Party Leaders, and Governor Gladys Nyasuna Wanga as Party Chair.
Commitment to broad-based government
The resolutions reiterated ODM’s position within the broad-based government, stating, “We reaffirm our commitment to staying in the broad-based government and in government now and in the future and building partnerships to capture power.”
ODM further called for the full implementation of its 10-point agenda, with emphasis on compensation for victims of post-election violence. The resolutions framed participation in government as part of a broader strategy for political engagement and policy influence.
National concerns on economy, security and health
The Kirembe Rally also addressed national issues, including economic pressures facing citizens. The party cited concerns over fuel challenges and urged government interventions, while expressing hope that global tensions in the Middle East would ease.
On education and safety, ODM raised concerns following the incident at Utumishi Academy in Gilgil. The party called for a review and implementation of previous safety recommendations from committees and commissions to prevent similar occurrences in schools.
“We call for a speedy review of the implementation status of all the recommendations of all previous committees and commissions formed to look into safety in all schools with a view to ending, once and for all, tragedies witnessed at Utumishi Academy.”
On health, ODM urged a structured national conversation on public health programmes, particularly Ebola-related messaging, and called on the Health Committee Chair, Nyikal, to initiate a parliamentary inquiry to address misinformation and politicisation of health issues.
Later on X, Oburu expressed gratitude for the large turnout at the Kirembe Rally in Kisumu, describing the gathering as a strong show of support from Siaya, Migori, Kisumu, Homa Bay, and neighbouring regions.
He said the region remains the backbone of ODM support and urged supporters to remain united, emphasising that the party is their permanent political home.
He stressed collective leadership within ODM, stating that the movement is bigger than any individual and that he would step aside if his leadership ever caused division.
Oburu also called for increased party membership and voter registration, noting that “numbers” are key to political influence, and expressed confidence that an ODM-led government would prioritise citizens’ interests through unity and structured implementation of the party manifesto.