The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in Kisumu County has closed ranks behind Dr Oburu Odinga, endorsing him as the party’s lead negotiator even as internal divisions persist over ODM’s engagement with President William Ruto’s broad-based government.
County party leaders, Members of County Assembly (MCAs) and grassroots delegates meeting in Kisumu said Dr. Oburu enjoys their full backing and should be allowed to steer the party’s political engagements without interference.
Kisumu County Assembly Majority Leader Ken Ooko said the county had formally mandated Dr Oburu to negotiate on behalf of the party, urging members to respect established party structures.
He said the endorsement was necessary to provide clarity at a time when conflicting signals from the party’s national leadership have created uncertainty over ODM’s political direction.
The meeting, attended by more than 300 delegates, also highlighted growing fault lines within ODM, with some leaders favouring cooperation with the government while others insist the party should maintain a firm opposition stance.
Kisumu County Assembly Chief Whip Seth Kanga said the county would remain loyal to the party leadership and support Dr Oburu in all political processes, warning against parallel decision-making within the party.
ODM Kisumu County chairperson Paul Akeyo said the party’s support for the broad-based government would depend on the implementation of the agreed ten-point agenda, arguing that cooperation should translate into tangible development for Kenyans.
“If the agenda is implemented, then we will rally behind the government,” Akeyo said.
The Kisumu position contrasts with sentiments expressed by sections of the national leadership, including Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, who have openly criticised ODM’s involvement in the broad-based arrangement.
The lakeside county leaders said their approach was driven by the need to secure development and government support for local projects, rather than prolonged political confrontation.
The endorsement of Dr Oburu signals Kisumu’s preference for engagement and pragmatism, even as ODM continues to grapple with internal disagreements over its role in the evolving political landscape.
By Chris Mahandara
