Luo Council of Elders from Uriri Constituency in Migori County has called on young Luo leaders to follow proper channels in pursuing community leadership, emphasizing the need for moderation, unity, and peace within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party.
Speaking in Uriri, the elders, led by their patron, Jim Ayayo, welcomed the leadership of young and vibrant figures such as Winnie Odinga and Babu Owino. However, they cautioned them against actions that could disrupt community peace or cause division.
“For over three decades, the Luo community has enjoyed peaceful political existence under the leadership of the late Raila Odinga. His passing should not create a vacuum that leads to discord,” said Ayayo.
The elders also urged Mzee Odungi Rand, Chairperson of the Luo Council of Elders, to convene both opposing factions to chart an agreeable path for the way forward for the community politically.
Recent weeks have witnessed dissenting voices and subtle internal ODM power struggles, with one faction advocating maintenance of the party’s broad-based formation, while another calls for an assessment of the structure’s merits. Senior party figures are pulling in different directions, intensifying divisions.
The transition of ODM leadership following Raila Odinga’s death, marked by the installation of Oburu Oginga was meant to be orderly. However, it has instead led to ideological and strategic disagreements that risk weakening both the ODM party and the Luo community, which has historically formed its backbone.
Oburu Oginga, Raila’s elder brother, is seen as a stabilizing force who supports the status quo and broad-based formation.
Meanwhile, a more vocal faction associated with Winnie Odinga, Babu Owino (Embakasi East MP), and Edwin Sifuna (ODM Secretary-General and Nairobi Senator) advocates for a different approach, insisting that the party should hold more consultations before initiating talks with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The elders emphasized that political competition should not compromise the cohesion and long-standing unity of the Luo community.
They called on all leaders to prioritize dialogue, constructive engagement, and respect for established channels when pursuing leadership roles.
By Polycarp Ochieng & Makokha Khaoya
