A simmering power struggle within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is set to play out in public on Saturday, February 21, as rival factions stage separate rallies in Siaya, Vihiga and Kakamega counties in what observers view as a test of political strength.
The Siaya rally will be led by party leader Oburu Odinga under the “Linda Ground” mobilisation drive, while a breakaway faction associated with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna plans parallel gatherings in Vihiga and Kakamega.
The competing events have intensified political temperatures in ODM strongholds and raised concerns about possible clashes between supporters.
According to Taifa Leo, the rival meetings are expected to gauge which faction commands greater grassroots support amid an escalating internal dispute that has unsettled the party’s traditional unity.
Claims of schemes to disrupt the gatherings have also surfaced, heightening fears of unrest in neighbouring counties.
The showdown comes barely a week after Odinga addressed supporters in Mombasa, while Sifuna’s faction drew a sizeable crowd at a rally in Kitengela that sparked nationwide debate and signalled deepening divisions within the party.
Political analysts say the simultaneous rallies signal a struggle for influence ahead of future electoral contests and negotiations over the party’s direction.
Western Kenya and Nyanza remain critical bases for ODM, making Saturday’s turnout a key indicator of shifting loyalties.
Security agencies are expected to monitor the situation closely to prevent violence, as leaders from both camps urge supporters to remain peaceful.
The outcome of the parallel rallies could shape ODM’s internal balance of power and determine the party’s cohesion as Kenya’s political landscape continues to evolve.