Linda Mwananchi faction slams ODM ‘sell-outs’, says party is being run from State House

The leaders, among them Siaya Governor James Orengo, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, said the movement remains rooted in the legacy of the late Raila Odinga and vowed to push for a one-term presidency for Ruto in 2027.

Addressing supporters, Orengo claimed he had been endorsed as acting party leader, with Sifuna as ODM secretary-general and Osotsi as deputy party leader, as he rallied the crowd against what he described as attempts to weaken the party from within.

The faction took aim at the broad-based government deal between ODM and UDA, saying the administration has failed to implement the agreed agenda and that the party should not be “run from State House”.

Sifuna said he was visiting Kisumu for the first time since Raila’s death and thanked residents for maintaining calm and showing respect during the late leader’s homecoming and burial arrangements.

He said he had consulted with Raila’s family in Bondo before the meeting and maintained that ODM should not align itself with what he termed “rogue” elements.

Sifuna also claimed that part of the agreement with UDA included compensation for victims of police brutality and action against those responsible, but argued that little had been delivered.

Osotsi, who referenced previous remarks by Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen over his attackers, urged authorities to arrest those behind violence against leaders, and claimed some suspects were known in Kisumu.

The leaders, alongside other speakers including Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, urged youths to reject political intimidation, condemn violence and demand development and accountability, arguing that many young people remain jobless despite education and skills.