ODM leaders vow to protect party as three-day retreat kicks off

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has kicked off its three day retreat in Mombasa in what is seen an attempt to steady the orange ship ahead of the 2027 General Election.

ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga said that the retreat aims to solidify its support bases across the country and continue to uphold the spirit of unity within the faction.

“Before we think about others let's think about ourselves first and the party. Let's think how to create space and put our party first. We will come out stronger and united. Let's not be discouraged,” she said.

On his part, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho said that all party members should emulate the character and teachings of the party’s founder, the late Raila Odinga to sustain the party for posterity.

“The party is larger than any individual. Can I be the party leader? Yes, but I believe the party is greater than any individual,” he said.

“I was guided by the late Raila Odinga. Baba new when to be tough, when to negotiate. We are lucky because he involved us.”

He warned other leaders against creating divisions within the party, saying that the party shall not welcome any dissenting members.

“Let’s stop selfishness. You can never recreate ODM. ODM is strong and ODM will get power through whatever means,” Joho added.

On his part, Kisii Governor and deputy party leader Simba Arati told off Siaya governor James Orengo for declaring himself the party leader, asserting that the party still has one officially recognized party leader.

“Baba (Raila) gave us a party not anchored on personalities but in a constitution that provides structures,” he said.

“There's no vaccum in ODM, the party leadership is firmly in place and fully functional. The leader at the helm is Oburu Oginga supported by me Wanga.”

He maintained that the party leadership is still firm and there is no vacancy at the party’s helm.

“We will stand shoulder to shoulder with Oburu in pursuit if a better Kenya. It's a responsibility for every member to respect those entrusted with leadership,” he added.

“Are we going to hold together or fall apart?  Unity is not optional. For those who are uncertain, come back home.”

He intimated that Oburu is set to join the party starting tomorrow, Monday, May 4.

This comes as the Linda Mwananchi faction, led by Governor Orengo, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino have accused ODM of being coerced by President William Ruto’s government.

The faction has maintained it will continue engaging with citizens and calling for a change in leadership just as the late Mr. Odinga tirelessly fought for.

Sifuna has maintained that he is still the rightful ODM Secretary General despite the Oburu-led faction attempting to oust him.