Tensions surfaced within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as party members debated who should manage the party’s relationship with the broad-based government following the death of its former leader, Raila Odinga.
The discussion was sparked during the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa, where EALA MP Winnie Odinga raised concerns about the future handling of the portfolio.
Winnie Odinga addressed ODM party leader Oburu Odinga, emphasizing that the late Raila had been solely entrusted with managing the party’s engagement with the government.
“When it came to the matter of this broad-based government, the people of ODM entrusted one person with the management of that relationship, and that person was Baba Raila Odinga, and that relationship is complicated,” she said.
She called for a party-level consultation, suggesting an NDC be convened to allow members to determine who should take on the responsibility moving forward.
Oburu Odinga responded to Winnie’s remarks by assuring the party that the matter would be discussed internally and that solutions would be sought collaboratively.
His comments indicate an effort to maintain cohesion within ODM while addressing calls for broader participation in decision-making.
The debate drew public attention after Kileleshwa Ward MCA Robert Alai weighed in through an X post.
Alai described the issue as a potential clash over access to President William Ruto, arguing that the late Raila’s unique role could not be replicated.
“Baba Raila Amolo Odinga was special. Nobody in the family, within ODM or in the country, will effectively play the role of Raila,” Alai wrote, adding that Winnie lacked the experience to take on such responsibilities.
He invited her for a discussion to provide guidance, underscoring the need for mentorship within the party.
The discussion highlights the challenge ODM faces in navigating internal leadership and strategy in the absence of Raila Odinga, who had long been the party’s central figure in national politics.
Raila’s management of relations with the government had been a key element of ODM’s influence, particularly in negotiations with the administration and in maintaining party cohesion.