Senior Counsel Ahmednasir Abdullahi has stirred fresh debate within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after weighing in on the party’s internal tensions, urging one faction to allow Oburu Odinga to steer the party’s political direction.
In a lengthy statement posted on X, the outspoken lawyer argued that political labels matter less than the individuals behind them, while drawing parallels between current ODM divisions and the mid-1990s wrangles within Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD).
He referenced how Raila Odinga left the party following disputes with Kijana Wamalwa and James Orengo, later building a formidable political movement.
Ahmednasir suggested the historical fallout helped shape political alignments between communities, adding that present tensions risk reopening settled rivalries.
He framed the current contest within ODM as a struggle between factions associated with Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and those aligned to Oburu Odinga, brother to Raila.
According to the senior counsel, the Sifuna-Orengo axis should allow Oburu Odinga to take charge of the party’s leadership direction and pursue a path that could see ODM align with President William Ruto in a bid to access State House.
His remarks also delved into Kenya’s ethnic political dynamics, arguing that alliances and power struggles often reflect community interests and historical voting patterns.
He contended that past disputes between Luhya and Luo political elites over party control mirrored the present tensions within ODM.
Ahmednasir’s comments have sparked debate online, with critics accusing him of promoting divisive ethnic narratives, while supporters say his views reflect hard political realities.
ODM has in recent months faced internal disagreements over cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza administration and the party’s future political strategy.
The party, long associated with Raila Odinga’s opposition politics, has been navigating a shifting landscape following the 2022 general election and evolving alliances ahead of 2027.
Whether the party coalesces around a unified path or continues to grapple with internal divisions may shape opposition politics and coalition dynamics in the run-up to the next general election.