Political tensions within ODM escalated on Monday after a wave of defections from the Sifuna-linked Linda Mwananchi brigade landed in Siaya politics, handing Senator Oburu Odinga what allies are calling a major political boost as Governor Gladys Wanga publicly welcomed the new entrants.
The shift, which has been building quietly for weeks, saw several grassroots mobilisers align themselves with the Homa Bay governor’s camp, a move insiders say weakens Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s influence in parts of the party’s youth structures.
Speaking during a brief rally, Wanga praised the defectors for what she described as “choosing unity over division,” insisting ODM remained focused on strengthening its grassroots networks ahead of upcoming political battles.
“We are not here to fight individuals. We are here to build a stronger movement that listens to the people,” Wanga said, as supporters cheered.
Oburu, who has recently been stepping up his political engagements in Siaya, is said to be quietly benefiting from the realignment, with local leaders interpreting the move as a consolidation of his influence within the region’s party machinery.
However, allies of Sifuna downplayed the defections, arguing that ODM’s strength lies in internal competition and ideological debate, not factional loyalty.
“The party is bigger than individuals. People come and go, but ODM remains focused on the people,” a Sifuna ally said, dismissing claims of a major fallout.
Political analysts now say the developments could signal a fresh round of internal positioning within ODM as leaders prepare for future electoral cycles, with both Wanga and Oburu appearing to tighten their regional grip.
The developments are expected to intensify lobbying within ODM’s coastal and western strongholds as rival camps position themselves for influence ahead of the next election cycle, with unity talks likely to continue behind closed doors.
