The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party in Kenya is commemorating the one-year anniversary of the passing of its leader, Raila Odinga, with a month-long series of events under the theme 'Mwezi wa Baba' (Father's Month). The celebrations will culminate in a memorial service at the Odinga family home in Bondo, with President William Ruto expected to attend. However, the party is grappling with internal divisions and questions about its future direction.
Raila Odinga's death in October 2025 sparked a succession crisis within the ODM party, with his brother Oburu Oginga taking over as leader. However, a faction led by Senator Edwin Sifuna opposed Oburu's leadership and the party's growing closeness to President Ruto's government. The rift led to Sifuna's removal as party secretary general, which was later upheld by a political disputes tribunal.
The divisions within the ODM party have led to the emergence of a new political movement, Linda Mwananchi, which is opposed to the party's coalition with the government. Sifuna and other leaders, including Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Governor James Orengo, have rallied behind the movement, which has gained significant support, particularly among young people and in key regions.
The ODM party's leadership, under Oburu, has opted to work with President Ruto's government, with Oburu stating that the party will not field a presidential candidate in the 2027 elections. However, this move has been met with resistance from within the party, with many viewing it as a betrayal of Raila Odinga's legacy. Research polls have shown that a majority of Kenyans are opposed to the coalition.
The Linda Mwananchi movement has gained significant traction, with a recent survey showing that 24% of Kenyans identify with the movement, while 27% support the coalition government. The movement has also gained support from key leaders, including Sifuna, who has been endorsed as the movement's presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.
The ODM party's divisions have raised questions about its future direction and the legacy of Raila Odinga. The party's leadership has sought to downplay the divisions, with the Odinga family calling for a united celebration of Raila's life and legacy. However, the divisions are likely to continue to shape the party's trajectory in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
As the ODM party marks one year since Raila Odinga's death, it faces a critical moment in its history. The party must navigate its internal divisions and determine its future direction, while also honoring the legacy of its founding leader. The outcome will likely have significant implications for Kenyan politics and the future of the ODM party.
Key points
- The ODM party is divided over its coalition with President William Ruto's government.
- The Linda Mwananchi movement has emerged as a new force in Kenyan politics, opposing the ODM party's coalition with the government.
- The ODM party's future direction and legacy of Raila Odinga are at stake as it marks one year since his death.
