Leadership Transition in ODM Sparks New Dynamics
Siaya Governor James Orengo has declared himself the acting party leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). This move comes as the party seeks a renewed direction and stronger leadership ahead of the next electoral cycle. During a Linda Mwananchi mega rally in Nakuru on Sunday, Orengo addressed supporters, emphasizing the need for reorganization and a sharpened strategy to maintain competitiveness.
“We know the secretary general of ODM is Edwin Sifuna, and now Orengo is the acting party leader of ODM,” he stated. This declaration marks a significant shift in the party’s leadership structure, especially given the traditional dominance of Raila Odinga.
The ODM party has recently faced questions regarding succession planning and organizational cohesion, particularly as the country approaches the next general election cycle. The recent developments highlight the internal challenges and strategic realignments within the party.
On March 3, members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Parliamentary Group endorsed the installation of Oburu as Party Leader. This decision was made during a joint ODM Parliamentary Group meeting held on March 3, 2026, under the leadership of Party Leader Oburu.
According to a press statement issued after the meeting, members received a briefing on recent party activities, reviewed upcoming programmes within and outside Parliament, and developed positions on anticipated issues. Among the resolutions, the Parliamentary Group endorsed the decision by an emergency NEC meeting to install Dr Oburu Oginga as Party Leader.
The MPs further backed a Central Committee decision supporting the ongoing working arrangement between ODM and UDA. In addition, they supported a mandate requiring the party to engage in structured negotiations with UDA for the purpose of forming a coalition ahead of the 2027 election.
Key Resolutions and Strategic Moves
The Parliamentary Group also approved a decision by relevant party organs to pursue compensation for victims of past election-related human rights abuses. On this matter, the MPs undertook to work with partners and explore alternative mechanisms to ensure the issue is acted upon urgently and conclusively.
In another significant move, the Parliamentary Group endorsed the decision by relevant party organs for the party to withdraw from the Azimio coalition. This decision reflects a strategic shift in the party’s alliances and priorities.
The MPs also endorsed a decision by the NEC to convene a special National Delegates Convention on March 27, 2027. As part of its next steps, the Parliamentary Group agreed to hold a joint session with UDA MPs next Tuesday.
According to the statement, the meeting will provide a briefing on the implementation status of a ten-point agenda agreed between the two sides. Finally, the Parliamentary Group mandated the Party Leader to begin internal processes, including determining modalities and representation, in preparation for the anticipated negotiations with UDA.
The statement was signed by Junet Mohamed, Minority Party Leader in the National Assembly, and Senator Stewart Madzayo, Minority Party Leader in the Senate.
