ODM Postpones National Delegates Convention to Early 2026

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has postponed its National Delegates Convention (NDC), originally scheduled for October, pushing it to early 2026.

The postponement follows rising tensions within the party’s top leadership, particularly over ODM’s cooperation with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA). Disagreements over this partnership have led to internal divisions, with Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna openly criticising the arrangement.

His remarks have faced strong opposition from party members who support the alliance, prompting calls for his resignation and fuelling speculation of possible leadership changes. Party officials have stated that the delay is meant to allow uninterrupted celebrations of ODM’s 20th anniversary.

Chairperson Gladys Wanga confirmed the revised timeline, saying the party aims to separate its commemorative events from internal elections. The NDC, which was set to ratify key leadership appointments and elect new officials, will now take place in the first quarter of 2026.

The planned convention was expected to endorse recent appointments, including Abdulswamad Nassir, Simba Arati, and Godfrey Osotsi as deputy party leaders, and Ms Wanga’s elevation to chairperson. These changes follow the exit of former senior officials Hassan Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya, and John Mbadi, who were appointed to Cabinet roles.

Mr Nassir has stated that the NDC was not intended to remove dissenting voices but to formally approve decisions already made by the party’s top organ. However, uncertainty remains around Mr Sifuna’s position, with insiders warning that any attempt to challenge him prematurely could lead to defections and weaken the party’s organisational structure.

Mr Osotsi confirmed that the NDC will still play a role in selecting new officials but dismissed claims that internal conflict prompted the delay. He said the focus of the anniversary events is on reflection and renewal rather than internal politics.

ODM will hold its 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa from 10 to 12 October, with satellite events in Migori and Wajir counties to highlight the party’s national reach and grassroots support. The three-day event is expected to bring together both current and former members.

The postponement comes at a time when ODM’s leadership is under pressure to maintain unity ahead of the 2027 General Election. The party’s working relationship with President Ruto, once considered unlikely, has introduced new challenges to its internal cohesion. Party leader Raila Odinga has confirmed that the partnership will continue through to the next election.