A deepening rift has emerged within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following a charged Linda Mwananchi rally that laid bare internal divisions over the party’s leadership and future path.
The gathering, held at Kowuor grounds in Nyalenda, drew a large crowd and came at a sensitive moment, being the first major political event in Kisumu since the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Rather than showcasing unity, the rally became a stage for sharp criticism directed at the party’s top leadership.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna spearheaded the attacks, urging members to remain committed to defending citizens’ rights in line with Odinga’s legacy.
He faulted sections of the inner circle for failing to step up, accusing them of lacking courage to lead during a critical period.
Sifuna affirmed that ODM would field a presidential candidate in 2027, insisting the party would not abandon it's ambition to lead the country and will only rally behind one of its own.
“ODM will not retreat. In 2027, we shall present a presidential candidate as planned,” Sifuna told supporters, as reported by the People Daily.
He also disclosed his role in drafting the cooperation agreement with President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA), lamenting that key provisions—such as compensation for victims of police brutality—remain unfulfilled.
