Former journalist Gordon Opiyo has launched a sharp critique against the ODM party, accusing its leadership of failing to decisively handle internal dissent, particularly in relation to Siaya Governor James Orengo, whose political posture has increasingly been viewed as defiant within the broader opposition framework.
In a strongly worded commentary, Opiyo argues that political power requires strict internal discipline, comparing ODM’s handling of its internal disputes to what he describes as President William Ruto’s swift restructuring of party ranks in earlier political moments.
“Power is never joked around with,” Opiyo stated, suggesting that political survival depends on immediate action against perceived internal rebellion.
He draws parallels between different party management styles, claiming that failure to act against dissenting voices has weakened ODM’s cohesion.
According to him, the party’s tolerance of internal divisions has allowed influential figures to operate independently, ultimately weakening its bargaining strength.
Opiyo specifically points to Governor Orengo, alleging that his political conduct has increasingly resembled activism rather than executive leadership, a situation he says has created governance and political tension in Siaya County.
He further argues that attempts by local leaders to challenge Orengo’s leadership have been blocked by senior ODM figures, allegedly due to internal political preferences within the county leadership structure.
He also raises concerns over what he terms as weakened party control, suggesting that ODM’s inability to rein in senior figures has created space for competing political interests to emerge from within.
“Siaya County funds are being used… to weaken ODM from within,” Opiyo claimed, without providing evidence, adding that internal protection of influential leaders is costing the party politically.
His remarks come amid growing political discussions around Orengo’s positioning within the “Linda Mwananchi” narrative, a loosely defined political movement that has been critical of the broad-based government arrangement and President Ruto’s administration.
The movement has gained traction in parts of western Kenya, particularly Kisumu, where leaders aligned to it have been vocal in opposing state policies and advocating for what they describe as citizen-centered governance.
Opiyo further argues that ODM’s internal disagreements could affect its future political negotiations, warning that unresolved tensions may reduce the party’s leverage in national political engagements.
ODM leadership has not officially responded to the remarks. However, the party has in the past defended its internal diversity, arguing that differing opinions do not necessarily amount to rebellion but reflect democratic expression within the party structure.