By Joshua Otieno | March 27, 2026
Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya’s Orange Democratic Movement is experiencing one of its deepest internal divisions ahead of the 2027 General Election, with rival factions convening parallel conventions, each claiming legitimacy.
At the official convention at Jamhuri Showgrounds, Oburu Oginga presided over the ratification of the party’s restructured executive team. Meanwhile, a dissenting camp led by Edwin Watenya Sifuna held a separate “People’s National Delegates Convention” at Ufungamano House.
Security personnel were deployed to disperse some participants at Ufungamano House, including prominent party figures such as James Orengo, Babu Owino, and Godfrey Osotsi. The intervention has sparked accusations of state interference and raised concerns over the integrity of both conventions.
Voices from the Rift
Edwin Watenya Sifuna rejected the current leadership:
“It is not a must for me to remain Secretary General… I cannot become the Secretary General of mediocrity.”
James Orengo described the dissenting convention as the true guardian of ODM ideals:
“The real ODM is meeting in Ufungamano… Freedom has always been born out of rebellion.”
Godfrey Osotsi criticized the police action:
“Police were deployed to chase away delegates. What a shame… Next year will be a Senegal moment.”
Other senior leaders highlighted broader governance concerns. Anthony Kibagendi commented:
“The health and education sectors are struggling… while State House spending rises.”
Wilberforce Oundo accused the official leadership of betraying the party’s founding mission:
“ODM was left strong… but those entrusted with it have been compromised.”
Gisairo Ombane questioned the legitimacy of the Jamhuri Showgrounds convention:
“The Jamhuri meeting is funded using stolen public resources.”
Implications Ahead
The simultaneous conventions and public statements underscore the widening fault lines within ODM. Political analysts suggest the divisions could influence party alliances, candidate nominations, and campaign strategy in the run-up to the 2027 General Election.
Observers note that the leadership transition following the death of Raila Amolo Odinga has failed to resolve internal disputes, leaving the party’s cohesion in question.
