Ledama says ODM isn’t splitting, urges Sifuna and Babu Owino to play smart in Nairobi
By Mustafa Juma, January 26, 2026Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has dismissed claims that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is splitting.
Taking to his official X account on Monday, January 26, 2026, the Senate Minority Whip insisted that the Orange party is only in survival mode.
Olekina argued that media narratives suggesting a split in ODM are inaccurate. He said the party remains united but is navigating internal pressures from different factions, which he described as a natural response to political competition.
“Media’s DEAD WRONG: ODM isn’t splitting! It’s survival mode. That’s why my friends are pushing back hard,” Olekina stated.
Nairobi politics
While urging Nairobi Senator and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifguna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino to play smart in city politics, Olekina highlighted the importance of Nairobi politics in shaping party strategies, noting that city voters are largely cosmopolitan and liberal, with the Kamba and Kikuyu communities forming a significant portion of the electorate.
“Nairobi politics does not control ODM’s future. Sifuna and Babu get it. They won the city voters who are cosmopolitan and liberal. With the Kamba and Kikuyu being the majority in the city, they want leaders who speak their true language, the one from their kingpins,” he stated.
Olekina also referenced Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s historical influence as a Kamba leader, asserting that the community’s support will continue to be critical in the 2027 elections.
He emphasised that smart politicians must navigate ethnic dynamics carefully while appealing to broader national interests.
The Narok Senator further pointed to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s growing prominence, suggesting that his tribal narratives could resonate with some voters, and urged Sifuna and Babu Owino to strategise accordingly.
“Kalonzo’s influence as Kamba leader was huge in past elections and no doubt in 2027 too. Any smart politician must be seen doing that. Riggy G sees himself as big power. His tribal narrative could convince many to listen. Sifuna and Babu must play smart! I feel them,” Olekina stated.
Sifuna and Babu’s Nairobi rallies
Ledama’s remarks come a day after ODM rebel leaders, led by Sifuna, assembled in Kawangware in Nairobi for a joint church service, after which they addressed roadside rallies in the area.
This happened on Sunday, January 25, 2026, as the rest of the ODM fraternity was in Kisii carrying out the party’s Linda Ground Forum, which was a resolution of ODM’s Central Management Committee (CMC) that tasked Oburu Odinga with initiating structured talks with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2027 elections.
The leaders present included Siaya Governor James Orengo, ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi, and several MPs who are part of Sifuna’s Kenya Moja Caucus, including Babu Owino, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gesairo, Bomachoge Borabu MP Obadiah Barongo, Funyula MP Wilberforce Oundo, and Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, among others.