Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo has spoken out about growing tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), ahead of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna's launch of the Linda Mwananchi Movement on Friday, October 30. Odhiambo expressed her dissatisfaction with decisions taken by ODM following the death of former party leader Raila Odinga. She had raised concerns within the party over several decisions but was ignored. Her objections included the expulsion of Edwin Sifuna as ODM secretary general and the departures of Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Siaya Governor James Orengo.
Odhiambo, who serves as minority whip in the National Assembly, has adopted a new disposition as she approaches her 60s, distancing herself from political controversy. In a social media post, she indicated that she will enter another decade marked by exceptional calmness and an enhanced 'I don't care attitude'. Until then, she stated that she has no opinion on trending political issues. This change in attitude comes after she was previously one of ODM's most vocal defenders, regularly championing the party in public rallies and Parliament.
Critics within ODM have challenged Odhiambo to formally exit the party rather than express dissatisfaction from the sidelines, describing her stance as fence-sitting. She has yet to declare a firm political direction. Odhiambo's comments come at a time when Sifuna is set to formalize the Linda Mwananchi Movement, completing the transition from The Equatable Party (TEP). He is also expected to unveil the movement's leadership structure at the launch.
A recent Swiss Polls survey placed the Linda Mwananchi Movement as the second most popular political outfit in Kenya, with a 17% rating, behind the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) at 37%. ODM, by contrast, registered just 7% support, a significant fall from its position as one of Kenya's dominant parties during Raila's lifetime. This decline in support has raised concerns within the party about its future prospects.
Millie has publicly acknowledged Sifuna's political progress, though she has stopped short of formally aligning with his movement. Her stance has sparked debate within ODM, with some members calling for her to make a clear decision about her future in the party. The party has been undergoing significant changes since Raila's death, and Odhiambo's comments have added to the speculation about its future direction.
Sifuna's Linda Mwananchi Movement has gained significant momentum in recent weeks, with many Kenyans expressing support for the new political outfit. The movement's launch on Friday is expected to draw significant attention, with many politicians and supporters expected to attend. Odhiambo's comments have added to the excitement surrounding the launch, with many wondering how her stance will impact the party's future.
The developments within ODM have raised questions about the party's future prospects, with some analysts predicting a significant decline in its influence. The party has been struggling to maintain its position as a dominant force in Kenyan politics, and the departure of key figures such as Sifuna, Owino, and Orengo has added to the challenges. As the party looks to the future, it remains to be seen how it will respond to the changing political landscape.
Key points
- Millie Odhiambo expresses dissatisfaction with ODM decisions post-Raila Odinga's death
- Edwin Sifuna set to launch Linda Mwananchi Movement on Friday
- ODM's popularity has declined significantly since Raila Odinga's death
