Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Communications Director Philip Etale has implored party members to engage in deep reflection on Raila Odinga’s vision for the party following his death.

In a lengthy statement posted on his social media page on Monday, December 5, 2025, Etale decried the current infighting among ODM members in the wake of their leader’s death, terming the situation as saddening for the departed leader.

While calling for a peaceful future, he urged members to cease the bickering and instead focus on fulfilling Raila’s final wishes and aspirations for Kenyans, such as accomplishing the 10-point agenda between the ODM party and President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza government.

Appeal to ODM

“To the people of ODM, what we should be doing today is talking about how we can strengthen our party, as Baba said in one of his final party engagements. He urged us to build the party and make it strong, even when he was there (many seem never to have understood him).

“My plea is, let us give Raila Amolo Odinga the respect we gave him when he lived. As a spirit that he is today, he feels bad when we are determined to kill what he shed blood and tears for,” he stated.

Fulfilling Raila’s legacy

“The best we can do is ensure the 10-point agenda that he and HE President William Ruto signed in March of 2025 is implemented to the letter and to the satisfaction of all. Everyone will be happy on his behalf,” he said.

Etale further urged members to desist from the increasing trend of invoking the late leader’s name in their conversation, especially about the direction he wanted the party to take heading to the 2027 polls.

“For now, let us remove him from our mouths. Let him rest in peace. Let’s give his family time to mourn his death and that of their sister, Aunty Beryl Achieng.”

Etale’s entreaties come as the party navigates a tough period marked by accusations and counteraccusations among its top leaders. The rift has especially been evident, with one faction within the party favouring continued cooperation with the government under the broad-based arrangement, as another opposes the alignment ahead of the 2027 elections.