BUSIA, Kenya — A section of senior leaders from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has firmly rejected any proposed political arrangement with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), signalling deepening divisions over the party’s future direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking at a public rally in Busia County, Siaya Governor James Orengo said ODM would not trade its principles for political convenience, insisting the party’s priority remains the welfare of ordinary Kenyans rather than access to government positions.
“Baba Raila Odinga alisema hatutaki viti, tunataka wananchi wapate haki zao,” Orengo said, citing concerns over unemployment and the broader economic situation.
He dismissed any suggestion that ODM could be absorbed into President William Ruto’s administration.
“Sasa tunasema hatuwezi kuingia kwa UDA kamwe, kamwe, kamwe.”
Orengo further argued that ODM must preserve its political independence and prepare to contest power on its own terms.
“ODM ndio inaweza kutengeneza serikali,” he said, adding that, “Hakuna mtu atatulazimisha kuingia kwa serikali ambayo hatukubaliani nayo.”
He stressed that the party must present its own presidential candidate.
“ODM lazima ikuwe na presidential candidate.”
Sifuna pushes back against pressure
ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna echoed Orengo’s remarks, saying the party could not be coerced into any political arrangement it does not believe in.
Addressing growing pressure directed at him over his outspoken stance, Sifuna dismissed calls for his silence or removal from office.
“Wanasema Sifuna anyamaze ama afurushwe kwa chama,” he said.
Sifuna clarified that a previous agreement involving ODM and UDA did not amount to a coalition and had clearly defined limits.
“Huo mkataba uko na sahihi mbili pekee, ya Rais William Ruto na Mheshimiwa Raila Odinga,” he said.
“We did not provide for any extension of that agreement.”
He added that a committee established under the agreement is expected to conclude its work soon.
“Date ya mwisho ambayo ile kamati iliteuliwa inafaa itupatie ripoti ya mwisho ni Machi 7, 2026,” Sifuna said.
Questions over leadership and unresolved grievances
Kisii Senator Richard Onyoka dismissed claims that ODM lacks credible presidential contenders, insisting the party has sufficient leadership depth.
“Party leader wa ODM Oburu anasema ati hatuwezi toa president, kwani hapa hawa watoshi?” Onyoka asked.
“Si kuna Sifuna hapa? Si tuko na Babu hapa?”
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Onyoka also raised concerns over unresolved issues in the sugar sector, particularly the long-running crises at Mumias and Nzoia sugar factories, saying communities in western Kenya were demanding answers before any political engagement.
“The people of Busia have said that before you can discuss anything with ODM, first tell them what you did in Mumias and Nzoia Sugar,” Onyoka said, adding that “a government that cannot take care of its vulnerable citizens has no business being in office.”
Babu Owino: ODM must stay true to its roots
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino warned against intimidating dissenting voices within the party, saying ODM leaders should be ready to defend their positions even at personal political cost.
“Hatuna woga, hata wakitufukuza tuko tayari kurudi kwa by-election,” Babu said.
He concluded by urging ODM to remain anchored in its founding ideals.
“Chama ya ODM lazima iendelee mahali baba aliachia.”
