The Orange Democratic Movement faces growing calls for internal unity as the country gears up for the 2027 general elections.
As reported by KBC Channel 1 through their official X account, leaders from the Machakos branch urged party leader Oburu Odinga to prioritize reconciliation over deepening divisions, particularly in his ongoing tensions with Edwin Sifuna.
The branch officials highlighted the risks of escalating rifts, warning that continued conflict could weaken ODM’s position ahead of crucial polls.
The video footage shows an emotional appeal amid a backdrop of community settings, emphasizing conflict resolution within the party.
This grassroots plea comes against a backdrop of heightened internal strife in ODM, following Raila Odinga’s passing. Recent developments include the National Executive Committee’s decision to remove Sifuna from his long-held secretary-general role, replaced temporarily by Catherine Omanyo—a move Sifuna has challenged legally and publicly decried as unconstitutional.
Factions loyal to Sifuna accuse the current leadership of straying from the party’s foundational principles, while supporters of Oburu argue for reorganization to strengthen the party.
Calls for dialogue have also come from figures like Ida Odinga, who advocated family-like unity. With elections approaching, the Machakos leaders’ message underscores a broader sentiment: unity is essential for ODM to remain a formidable force in Kenyan politics.
Author: Bashirjuma
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