Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Odinga has issued a direct challenge to his internal critics, daring them to formally question his leadership at the party’s upcoming National Delegates Conference (NDC).
Speaking at a funeral in Siaya County on Friday, January 9, Odinga vehemently dismissed claims that his election was invalid, emphasizing that the NDC would serve as the legitimate platform to address such concerns.
Odinga’s fiery remarks come amidst growing divisions within the ODM party.
A splinter group of leaders, including Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Ruth Odinga, Amos Wako and others, recently held a meeting to discuss party leadership, with Owino publicly expressing his ambition to take over, stating, “after Baba, it is Babu”.
This sentiment reflects a broader push for change and reforms within the party following the passing of its long-time leader, Raila Odinga.
However, Oburu Odinga has maintained a firm stance, asserting his current position as the automatic presidential candidate for ODM if the party decides to contest the next elections independently.
He stressed that those opposed to his leadership should refrain from public allegations and instead raise their issues formally during the NDC, which he plans to convene “very soon” to resolve the infighting.
Oburu also addressed skepticism regarding his role in the broad-based arrangement with President William Ruto’s administration, insisting that he personally chaired all negotiations, including those that led to key cabinet appointments.
He further revealed that the party is in the process of forming a negotiation team to discuss renewing its partnership with the current administration, acknowledging that it will be a “tough negotiation” to secure ODM’s share.
The internal struggle highlights a deeper ideological tension within ODM regarding its engagement with the government.
