ODM Fractures as Key Leaders Defect Over Ruto Alliance

The Orange Democratic Movement is experiencing a severe internal crisis on the first anniversary of founder Raila Amolo Odinga's death. The party has fractured into competing factions following the leadership's decision to form a political alliance with President William Ruto and the United Democratic Alliance for the 2027 general election.

High-profile defections have stripped the party of key organizers. Former secretary general Edwin Sifuna departed to establish the Equitable Party, while Babu Owino launched the Mwananchi Party. Other prominent allies, including James Orengo and Godfrey Osotsi, have also severed ties or planned their exits. This fragmentation is reflected in opinion polls, which show a faction associated with Sifuna commanding 74 percent of follower support, while the official leadership under Oburu Oginga holds only 20 percent.

Despite these losses, party officials Junet Mohamed and Gladys Wanga maintain that the organization remains the strongest political force in Kenya. Wanga announced that the party will field candidates for all elective positions except the presidency. The instability complicates efforts by President Ruto to secure the support of the former Odinga constituency for his own re-election bid.