Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has claimed that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is nearing its political end, warning that an upcoming party meeting could accelerate its decline if key decisions are made.
Speaking during a live interview on Ramogi TV on Wednesday night, Gachagua offered a mixed assessment of the party founded by veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga, praising its historical role while expressing concern about its current trajectory.
Gachagua acknowledged ODM’s past influence in shaping Kenya’s political landscape, describing it as one of the country’s most formidable political movements.
“That Raila Odinga, in his greatness, has one great legacy. He founded and developed and grew a strong political party. I admire ODM and the quality of leaders that came through ODM,” he said.
ODM has for years been a dominant force in opposition politics, producing a wide network of leaders across the country and playing a central role in key political reforms. However, Gachagua argued that the party’s strength is now waning.
“I don’t have a problem with anybody. I have a problem that ODM is on its deathbed,” he said, adding that strong political parties are essential for a functioning democracy.
The former deputy president’s remarks come ahead of the party’s highly anticipated National Delegates Conference (NDC), scheduled for Friday.
The meeting is expected to address critical issues within the party, including its future direction and possible political alignments.
Gachagua warned that decisions made during the conference could have far-reaching consequences, particularly if ODM chooses to enter into a working arrangement with President William Ruto.
According to him, such a move could undermine the party’s identity as a strong opposition outfit and weaken its support base.
“Can you tell me about this NDC that is scheduled for Friday, that is ODM’s last supper?” he posed during the interview, suggesting that the gathering could mark a turning point for the party.
His comments reflect growing political debate over the future of opposition politics in Kenya, especially amid speculation about potential realignments between major political players.
Gachagua’s statements are likely to intensify scrutiny on the outcomes of the NDC, with attention focused on whether ODM will reaffirm its opposition stance or pursue a different political path.