ODM at 20: Internal divisions overshadow celebrations as factions emerge

With the ODM at 20 celebrations now in full swing, cracks within the party are continuing to emerge.

Two factions are becoming apparent: one insisting that the party remain in the broad-based setup following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and a separate faction opposed to this, advocating for ODM to continue its role in opposition and resistance, an image long associated with the party due to its history of holding those in power accountable.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who also serves as the party chairperson, has consistently insisted that ODM remain in the broad-based arrangement and support President William Ruto for his reelection in 2027.

She has maintained that the party should either form the next government or be part of the coalition that forms the government.

Orengo’s argument

These views have been opposed by Siaya Governor James Orengo, who has long criticised broad-based government arrangements. Speaking during the ODM Youth League forum on Friday, November 14, 2025, he expressed exasperation at this narrative.

He emphasised that in politics, one must be clear about their direction rather than sitting on the fence.

 Orengo stated that ODM is a party of the people, by the people, and for the people, and it should not become a tool of broad-based political interests.

He rejected the idea of supporting President Ruto’s reelection in 2027, arguing that the party would lose its identity and glory as the party of the people if it entered any arrangement with the state.

He cited examples of other parties that abandoned their principles, leading their countries into decline, warning that ODM risks following the same path. Orengo went on to fault some members within the party who has made the party looked like it’s dependent on Ruto when it should be the other way round.

Sifuna

The party secretary, Edwin Sifuna, echoed this position, expressing concern over the idea of ODM supporting the president. He criticised the notion that the party cannot produce a candidate to vie for the presidency, arguing that ODM has a surplus of leaders capable of running for the top office.

Osotsi

Vihiga Senator Geoffrey Osotsi urged party members and leadership to remain in opposition. He stressed that ODM was founded as an opposition party and that even within a broad-based government, the party should not remain silent in the face of ongoing challenges, including the implementation of its 10-point agenda.

Winnie Odinga

Winnie Odinga, daughter of the late Raila Odinga and MP for EALA, denounced claims of internal cracks, insisting that such divisions would not happen.

 She acknowledged that some members appear to defend the party while simultaneously undermining it, and she reminded members that the party was founded through struggle and sacrifice. However, she did not clearly indicate which faction she supported.

Governor Nassir

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, who also serves as one of the deputies, reiterated that the party is firmly in the broad-based arrangement and part of the government, not in opposition.

Joho

Cabinet Secretary for Mining and the Blue Economy, Hassan Joho, defended the party’s position within the broad-based setup, criticising those opposed to it. He named Wanga, Nassir, and Simba Arati as leaders who should speak on behalf of the party, emphasizing that anyone speaking outside the party leadership should not be taken seriously.

The ODM at 20 celebrations, which could have been an occasion to mark the party’s unity and two decades of achievements, instead highlighted emerging divisions.

 The party, which has traditionally followed a common cause set by its late leader, now faces challenges in agreeing on a shared direction.

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