Moses Kuria warns careless handling of ODM will have consequences
By Kenneth Mwenda, January 21, 2026Former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has cautioned that mishandling the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) core support could have serious consequences.
Kuria made the comments in a post on his X account on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.
“I spent long hours with Baba in his last three years on earth. Our discussions were very intense and analytical. ‘A discussion of deep thinkers’, as Baba would describe it to those around him, like Junet Mohammed. Most of those moments are captured in my autobiography that is coming out soon,” Kuria wrote.
He added:
“But one thing I can say is that Baba knew his political constituency was very complicated. He approached it with utmost care. He knew the ODM DNA was soaked with ultra-liberal juices which could turn against even him if he were to get cavalier in his approach.”
“I can only pity those who are trying to alter the DNA of Baba’s constituency like it’s some sort of instant coffee. There will be crying and gnashing of teeth.”
Growing divisions
Kuria’s warning comes amid rising tensions within the party following the death of its founder and long-time leader, Raila Odinga. Since Odinga’s passing last year, rival factions have emerged, sparking public debates and disagreements. These divisions risk undermining the party’s grassroots support ahead of the 2027 general election.
Over the weekend, Raila Odinga’s daughter, Winnie Odinga, further fuelled the debate with a rally in Kibra, Nairobi. Winnie, an East African Legislative Assembly MP, criticised party leaders for using her father’s name for personal gain and sidelining dissenting voices.
“Raila is irreplaceable,” she told supporters, condemning moves to consolidate power within certain factions.
She also criticised some party leaders for making unilateral decisions without consulting ordinary members. Winnie said threats will not silence her as tensions rise over the party’s direction following the death of her father, Raila Odinga. Winnie referenced the late rapper E-Sir’s hit song “Hamnitishi” to dismiss critics.
Winnie stressed that ODM belongs to the people and warned that sidelining loyal members could lead to disengagement. Her brother, Raila Odinga Jr., joined her at the rally, emphasising unity and dialogue.
ODM leader Oburu Oginga, meanwhile, has insisted the party has no plans to expel members and that internal debate is welcome.
“As long as we have unity, we shall negotiate with other parties from a point of strength and not weakness. We are the biggest party in the country, and we cannot approach the negotiating table when we are weak,” he said.