Tensions exploded at the ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa when Winnie Odinga delivered a fiery warning that powerful individuals inside the Orange Democratic Movement are secretly plotting to sell the party.
Her message landed only a month after the death of her father and former ODM leader Raila Odinga, making the allegations even more explosive.
She told supporters that rivals were quietly meeting behind closed doors to push their plan while pretending to stand with the party during the day. Her remarks triggered a heated political storm and exposed deepening cracks inside ODM.
Plans to Sell ODM Raises Alarm Within Party Ranks
Winnie Odinga delivered one of her strongest political statements yet during the ODM@20 anniversary event in Mombasa. She claimed that a secret group inside ODM is quietly planning to sell the party. Her accusation shocked many supporters who attended the event to celebrate the movement’s 20-year history and honour Raila Odinga’s legacy.
The EALA MP said that unnamed planners were walking with party members in public during the day, but holding secret meetings at night where they push the plan. She insisted that ODM was formed through sacrifice, not deals made in the shadows, and warned that she would defend the party from internal betrayal.
Winnie reminded the crowd that ODM was born out of protests and resistance. She said party loyalists had endured pain, arrests, and loss while fighting for a better Kenya. She insisted that the future of ODM must remain in the hands of genuine believers of its mission.
Her statement came at a time when the party remains divided over its relationship with the Kenya Kwanza government. A growing faction wants ODM to cooperate with President William Ruto, while hardliners argue that the party must remain independent ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Growing Tension Over ODM Direction
Political temperatures were already high before Winnie spoke. Many leaders openly disagreed over ODM’s place in the current political environment. Winnie’s claims only widened the cracks.
Siaya Governor James Orengo, one of Raila Odinga’s most loyal defenders for decades, attacked the idea of ODM working with President Ruto. He called members who support cooperation “cowards” and stated that the party must not surrender its voice to the government.
Orengo insisted that President Ruto needs ODM more than ODM needs him. He argued that the government has failed to fulfil promises to Kenyans and is therefore desperate for political backing. He warned ODM members not to behave like the party requires Ruto’s support to survive.
He echoed the words of Dr Oburu Odinga, who said ODM will not allow itself to be swallowed by any political formation. Orengo said ODM must remain the voice of the oppressed and maintain a clear identity ahead of 2027.
Joho Calls for Discipline and Clear Leadership
Hassan Joho, the former ODM deputy party leader and now Cabinet Secretary for Mining, offered a more measured response. Joho urged the party to maintain discipline in communication. He said only formal party organs should issue official positions to avoid confusion and unnecessary fights.
Joho’s message appeared to target both hardliners and moderates. He suggested that ODM must remain organised and avoid public clashes that can weaken the party. His call for unity highlighted the growing fear that internal fights could derail the movement during a sensitive transition period after Raila’s death.
Even with his government role, Joho remains a central figure in ODM politics. His statement signalled a need for calm at a time when the party appears fragile and deeply divided.
Sifuna Warns Against Blind Support for Government
Party Secretary General Edwin Sifuna also took the stage with a firm message. He said he would not blindly support the government. He assured supporters that ODM remains strong enough to field its own presidential candidate in 2027.
Sifuna said ODM will not surrender its mission for political comfort or personal gain. He argued that the party must stand firm and challenge the government where necessary. His remarks aligned with Orengo’s views and gave strength to the faction pushing for independence.
Sifuna’s statement reassured the party base that ODM still intends to play a major role in the next election. He said the movement cannot allow internal sabotage or external pressure to weaken its position.
