The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is confronting significant internal challenges that threaten its cohesion and electoral strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Recent weeks have seen heightened tensions within the party following the removal of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and his team. Several ODM lawmakers have revealed ongoing discontent, with some leaders reportedly being excluded from critical party and regional meetings.
Exclusion and Fragmentation
National Assembly Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo openly acknowledged the lack of unity within ODM despite the departure of Sifuna's faction. She highlighted that key figures, including herself, Rarienda MP Otiende Amollo, Kisumu Women Representative Ruth Odinga, and Ndhiwa MP Martin Owino, have been sidelined in strategic discussions.
"A leader from our region convened a meeting to promote unity, yet several of us were not invited," Millie said during an interview on Ramogi FM, expressing disappointment that internal issues are being aired publicly rather than resolved behind closed doors.
Otiende Amollo confirmed that exclusion from meetings has been a recurring issue but noted some improvement recently, with invitations extending to the previously left-out members. He also criticized the manner in which dissent has been managed, warning that unresolved grievances could deepen party fragmentation.
Declining Support in Traditional Strongholds
Millie Odhiambo further raised alarms about ODM's diminishing popularity in its historic strongholds, particularly in Western Kenya. She attributed this decline to internal divisions and poor handling of dissent, including the fallout with the Linda Mwananchi faction.
"Our support has weakened in some bases, especially in Western," she said, contradicting earlier optimistic projections by ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga, who expects the party to win over 100 parliamentary seats.
Despite these concerns, Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera expressed confidence that ODM would overcome current challenges and regain its influence in vote-rich regions.
Calls for Transparent Nominations
Millie emphasized the importance of conducting free and fair party nominations to prevent further losses to rival parties. She warned that disputed primaries have historically led disgruntled aspirants to defect, weakening ODM's electoral prospects.
Mixed Reactions Within ODM
While some members voice concern over the party's direction and messaging, others, like Wajir South MP Adow Mohammed, consider the current tensions as expected "teething problems" following the death of former leader Raila Odinga. Adow affirmed ODM's continued stronghold in the North Eastern region and its ongoing support for President William Ruto.
Looking Ahead
The internal divisions and strategic missteps highlighted by party insiders underscore the challenges ODM faces in consolidating support and presenting a united front for the 2027 elections. How the party addresses these issues will be critical to maintaining its relevance amid increasing competition from other political formations.
