Omanyo says ODM has shifted from protests to governance-focused politics
By Mustafa Juma, June 2, 2026Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) acting Secretary General Catherine Omanyo has stated that the party has transitioned from a protest-driven political approach to a more governance-focused and solutions-oriented strategy aimed at addressing national challenges through practical engagement.
Speaking during an interview with K24 TV on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, Omanyo reflected on the party’s evolving political philosophy, saying ODM has embraced a new direction centred on policy engagement, opportunity creation, and constructive participation in governance.
Shift from street protests
Omanyo noted that while street demonstrations had previously played a role in Kenya’s democratic space, the party has since reassessed its approach in line with changing national needs.
“Sometimes I miss those moments. But for how long will you be going to the streets, but you are not thinking of solutions?” she said, adding that the party had moved away from constant protests.
She emphasised that ODM’s leadership, guided by the late party leader Raila Odinga, had encouraged a shift from confrontation-based politics to a more structured focus on national development.
Omanyo said the party had deliberately repositioned itself to work more closely with government structures and stakeholders in pursuit of solutions that benefit ordinary citizens.
“Baba asked us to shift from the politics of protesting to practical solutions. I am a good student; I captured that statement,” she said.
She added that the party now prioritises identifying opportunities to support government initiatives and improve service delivery across key sectors of the economy.
Focus on national stability and development
The Busia Woman Representative stressed that Kenya has reached a stage where political maturity requires reduced reliance on protests and increased collaboration in governance and policy implementation.
“We have matured as a nation. We couldn’t just sit back and watch people play with our lives. And that is why we went to the streets that time,” she said.
Omanyo added that the party’s current focus is on ensuring stability while contributing to national development discussions rather than maintaining a confrontational stance.
She further noted that ODM’s current political posture is informed by lessons from past activism and the need to align with evolving national priorities.
“Until when Baba said we have to change tact. We changed; we are no longer resisting,” she said.
Her remarks come amid ongoing debates on the role of opposition politics in Kenya, particularly regarding whether political parties should prioritise protest movements or policy engagement and institutional participation.
ODM’s recent messaging has increasingly emphasised economic recovery, governance reforms, and youth empowerment, signalling a potential strategic shift ahead of future political contests.
The party is now working on a possible pre-election coalition with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) as the country heads into the 2027 General Election.