ODM at Crossroads: Osotsi Rallies Oburu Faction, Questions UDA Pact as Party Faces Defining Moment
By Jeff Kizzilah/Digital Reporter
ODM Deputy Party Leader met with the faction allied to Oburu Odinga,
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) today convened a crucial Joint Parliamentary Group Meeting at the ODM Parliamentary Buildings in Nairobi, bringing together Senators and Members of the National Assembly amid rising internal tensions within the party.
The meeting was marked by a significant show of unity as ODM Deputy Party Leader met with the faction allied to Oburu Odinga, signaling efforts to consolidate the party during what leaders described as a defining political moment.
Addressing members, the Deputy Party Leader acknowledged the gravity of the meeting, noting that it comes at a time when ODM is grappling with serious internal divisions that threaten its cohesion and future direction.
“We are meeting at a critical moment in our party’s history,” he stated, invoking the enduring leadership of party leader Raila Odinga, fondly referred to as Baba. He reminded members of Baba’s powerful words during the last Parliamentary Group Meeting: “Who told you?” — urging the party to adopt that question as a rallying call and unifying message.
Presidential Ambition Over Deputy Role
In a bold political challenge, the Deputy Party Leader called on ODM to rethink its strategic positioning ahead of the 2027 General Election. He urged members to seriously consider fielding a presidential candidate rather than settling for what he termed the “lesser role” of Deputy President.
The remarks are expected to intensify debate within the party over its long-term electoral strategy and engagement in coalition politics.
UDA Agreement Under Scrutiny
Concerns were also raised regarding the ten-point agenda signed in March last year between ODM and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). According to the Deputy Party Leader, there are clear indications that their counterparts have not demonstrated good faith in implementing the agreement.
He reminded members that the implementation deadline falls on Saturday, March 7, 2026, emphasizing that accountability must anchor any continued political engagement.
“Those advancing the two-term narrative must be mindful of the commitments made and ensure our politics is grounded in respect for agreed principles,” he cautioned.
Sifuna Removal Sparks Alarm
The meeting also addressed growing disquiet over attempts to remove Edwin W. Sifuna as ODM Secretary General. The Deputy Party Leader described the move as troubling and warned against what he termed calculated efforts to sideline leaders with divergent views.
He argued that such actions risk deepening internal divisions and weakening the party ahead of a critical political cycle.
An urgent review of the decision to remove Sifuna was called for, alongside an appeal for sobriety, fairness, and unity within ODM ranks.
A Defining Moment
As ODM navigates internal realignments and external political pressures, today’s meeting may mark a turning point in shaping the party’s direction toward 2027.
The message from the Parliamentary Group was clear: unity, accountability, and bold political thinking must define ODM’s next chapter.
