A group of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) legislators has raised alarm over growing rifts among the party’s senior leaders, urging party elder Oburu Oginga to step in and restore harmony. The MPs warned that the disputes, if left unresolved, could weaken ODM’s unity and public credibility ahead of the 2027 general election.
Seven lawmakers, led by Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo, said the divisions have deepened since the passing of party founder Raila Odinga, and are now affecting the party’s strength in key regions.
They singled out the ongoing feud between Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, who have been trading accusations over the handling of campaign funds during Raila Odinga’s 2022 presidential bid.
"Given the positions of trust bestowed on them, we urge the party officials like Secretary General Senator Edwin Sifuna and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, to desist from public verbal slurs and return to the table for internal discussions," MP Omollo said.
The lawmakers also drew attention to violent incidents within the party. They noted the case of Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who was allegedly threatened with a gun by Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai over social media allegations involving Alai’s wife.
In another instance, Lamu County Woman Representative Muthoni Marubu was reportedly attacked during a public gathering for expressing her views.
The MPs warned that such episodes, if unchecked, could escalate tensions and affect the 2027 elections. "Unless urgent action is taken to stem these emerging and unfortunate incidents, 2027 will be rocked by untold violence that is likely to undermine free and fair elections," Otiende said.
Other MPs supporting the intervention call include Suba North’s Millie Odhiambo, Nyatike’s Tom Ondege, Catherine Muma (nominated), Turkana South’s John Ariko, Ndhiwa’s Martin Owino, and Nyakach’s Aduma Owuor. Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang was also present during the briefing.
The lawmakers said Oburu Oginga should convene party organs to address these conflicts and reassure the public of ODM’s stability. They added that internal disputes are costing the party ground in areas that were once strongholds, as rival political formations gain traction.
With Raila Odinga’s passing, questions over leadership in Luo Nyanza and the wider party structure remain unresolved, while polls suggest Babu Owino could emerge as a prominent figure in the post-Raila era. The MPs stressed that immediate intervention is essential to maintain the party’s unity and credibility ahead of the next elections.
