Tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) escalated this week, exposing deep divisions between factions aligned to Oburu Oginga and Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna. The rift has raised questions about the party’s unity ahead of upcoming political battles.
ODM trustees, backed by Ida Odinga, widow of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, have quietly spearheaded efforts to reconcile the warring camps. Their intervention aims to prevent infighting from weakening the party’s position nationally.
Behind-the-scenes diplomacy has been underway, led by former Attorney General Amos Wako. Sources say Wako’s shuttle diplomacy involved repeated engagements with both factions, urging restraint and structured dialogue on leadership and policy disputes.
Ruaraka MP TJ Kajwang’ confirmed ongoing talks, describing them as careful negotiations intended to bring both sides to reason. “The trustees are pleading with both factions to come together and reason,” Kajwang’ said in an interview.
Despite these efforts, achieving consensus has proved elusive. Insiders say the reconciliation team encouraged suspension of hardline positions, but mutual distrust and competing ambitions slowed progress. The divisions within ODM remain stark and unresolved.
The deadlock reached a climax during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Mombasa. In a dramatic move, Sifuna was removed as secretary general, highlighting the depth of factional rivalries and signaling potential long-term instability.
Political analysts note that the removal reflects more than a simple leadership dispute. It underscores the challenges ODM faces in balancing competing interests while maintaining party cohesion, especially with elections approaching.
Observers say the trustees’ quiet interventions are crucial but may be insufficient. With both sides entrenched, the party risks further fragmentation unless a structured and enforceable compromise is reached swiftly.
For now, ODM insiders say the party remains at a crossroads. How it navigates these internal rivalries will likely determine its influence in Kenya’s political landscape in the coming months.
The coming weeks are expected to test the trustees’ mediation efforts. Party members and supporters will be watching closely to see whether dialogue prevails or if divisions deepen, potentially reshaping ODM’s future.
