ODM@20: Rift Deepens in Raila Camp as Ruto Returns to Pentagon

ODM’s 20th anniversary in Mombasa unfolded amid open disagreements among senior figures over whether the party should retain its opposition posture or deepen cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration.

At the Youth Convention at Swahili Pot, Siaya Governor James Orengo cautioned that ODM risked losing its ideological focus by drifting into what he called a “dangerous comfort zone.” He criticised talk of aligning with the government and argued that the party’s influence stems from its independence in Parliament. 

Orengo said liberation movements weaken when younger members abandon principle, recalling his own attempt to impeach President Daniel arap Moi at the age of 30 as an example of youthful determination. Winnie Odinga, daughter of the late Raila Odinga, dismissed claims of internal division as “manufactured talk.” 

She accused some party actors of covert efforts to “sell” ODM and warned that the party could not be reduced to private deals. She described ODM as a movement shaped by protest and resilience, insisting that its future should be protected from secret negotiations.

Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna echoed these concerns, invoking the party’s history of state repression and promising to defend its autonomy. He rejected suggestions that ODM lacks a viable presidential contender for 2027, saying the party would not “beg what is ours.” 

Former deputy party leader and current Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho pushed for a more conciliatory approach. He argued that President Ruto’s presence at the celebrations should not unsettle supporters, noting that Ruto was among ODM’s early members during the 2005 constitutional referendum. 

Joho said recognising this history does not weaken the party but reflects its broad roots. Tensions rose ahead of the ODM Founders’ Dinner, where Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, recently confirmed as party leader, assured members that ODM would not be absorbed into government. 

He highlighted the need to strengthen grassroots structures and expand membership to ensure the party enters future alliances from a position of influence. His remarks followed speculation that ODM’s cooperation with Kenya Kwanza could mirror the integration of the Amani National Congress.

During the National Governing Council meeting, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga was confirmed as chairperson, with Abdulswamad Nassir, Godfrey Osotsi and Simba Arati named as deputy leaders. Governor Nassir reiterated that engagement with government should not be mistaken for capitulation.

What began as a commemoration of Raila Odinga’s legacy and ODM’s two decades of political struggle instead exposed competing visions for the party’s direction.