Raila kicks off nationwide ODM consultations in Kakamega amid party rifts

Alarmed by growing internal strife and criticisms threatening the strength of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), party leader Raila Odinga is set to kick off a nationwide consultation tour today in Kakamega County, beginning with grassroots leaders.

The move comes amid increasing opposition within ODM, especially over Raila’s perceived working relationship with President William Ruto of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). The consultations aim to calm dissent, rejuvenate the party’s base, and solidify its position ahead of the 2027 General Election.

On Friday, Raila is expected to attend the Kakamega County ODM Delegates Conference at the Golf Hotel, convened by Kakamega Governor and County ODM Chairperson Fernandes Barasa.

According to the party, Raila’s mission is to meet newly elected grassroots officials and rally support as ODM gears up for its upcoming internal elections.

“This is the first in a series of countrywide engagements the party leader has planned to familiarise himself with the new grassroots leaders and energise the party ahead of 2027,” read a statement from ODM.

The meeting has been organised by the Kakamega County Coordinating Committee led by Governor Barasa, alongside ODM Deputy Party Leader and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi. Over 1,000 delegates from the county’s 12 branches — including Malava, Ikolomani, Navakholo, Matungu, Lurambi, Likuyani, Lugari, Khwisero, Shinyalu, Mumias East and Mumias West — are expected to attend.

Speaking to The Standard, Governor Barasa confirmed the meeting, terming it a precursor to the upcoming National Celebration marking 20 years of ODM’s existence.

“This is part of the preparation for a bigger celebration of 20 years of ODM greatness. But more importantly, it is about strengthening the party at the grassroots level. ODM remains the most preferred party in Kakamega County and the entire Western region,” said Barasa.

He noted that the county is fully prepared to conduct its party elections when called upon.

Touching on the ongoing rift within ODM, particularly concerning the Ruto-Raila cooperation, Barasa emphasized the importance of full implementation of the 10-point agenda outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

“As a democratic party, we embrace divergent views. But my focus is on ensuring that the MoU is implemented fully,” he added.

Earlier this week, Nairobi Senator and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna publicly contradicted Raila’s support for Ruto, calling it “unfortunate” and a source of confusion within the party.

“If ODM decides to back President Ruto in 2027, that’s something I personally cannot support. And if it comes to that, I will step down as secretary general,” said Sifuna, expressing hope that the party would “correct course.”

However, during a televised interview last Sunday, Raila affirmed his position:

“I am part of the broad-based government until 2027. We have not said we will work with UDA beyond that. Such decisions will be made by party members at the appropriate time.”

The ODM leader’s consultation tour is seen as a direct response to the growing discord and an attempt to rebuild trust and unity within the party ahead of the pivotal 2027 polls.