Leaders allied to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) breakaway Linda Mwananchi faction staged a high-energy political rally in Kisumu, signalling a deepening rift within the party and unveiling plans to field a presidential candidate in 2027.
The group, led by Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, drew large crowds at the KaOwuor grounds, using the platform to criticise both President William Ruto and sections of ODM’s top leadership.
Mr Orengo launched a scathing attack on the President, alleging state involvement in protest-related deaths. “This is why we are taking Ruto home. President Ruto killed Baby Pendo, Albert Ojwang and Gen Z,” he said.
The leaders also turned their fire on senior ODM figures, accusing them of betraying the party’s ideals and aligning with the government. Mr Orengo claimed some officials had “sold the party”, while Mr Sifuna suggested a leadership struggle was underway.
“There are people who were sleeping in Raila Odinga’s class.Let them leave us; those who were attentive will continue with the party leadership,” Mr Sifuna said.
He further alleged that the late Raila Odinga had cautioned him against working with President Ruto. “The late Raila Odinga told me that there is no way we will walk with leaders like President Ruto,” he said.
Mr Sifuna also claimed internal manoeuvres sidelined him during a recent trip abroad. “I boarded the plane not knowing it was a plan. While we were in India, the individuals put Oburu Oginga as the party leader,” he said, insisting he remains the legitimate Secretary-General.
Senator Osotsi echoed the accusations, alleging that rival ODM leaders held meetings at State House and attempted to hand control of the party to the government. “Before Raila’s body arrived in Kenya, individuals convened a meeting at State House and named Dr Oburu as the party leader.
Raila Odinga stated clearly that when he is not around, Prof Anyang’Nyong’o would take charge. But the individuals went to the State House and gave us Oburu,” he said.
He added: “They said after Raila Odinga died, they were now orphans. Orphans have no conditions. And they went to President Ruto to take us. They said the 10-point agenda should be abolished. They went ahead to hold party meetings at the State House.”
Despite heightened political tensions earlier in the day, including fears of disruption and sporadic business closures, the rally proceeded without major incidents, aided by what residents described as restraint from security agencies.
Mr Owino urged supporters to remain peaceful while warning against political violence. “This is home. When you are going home, you don’t come with violence; you come in peace and with We have come to speak with the people of Kenya,” he said.
“To the politicians paying goons, we know you. You have been given money to organise violence, but you will not lead in Kisumu,” he added.
The Kisumu tour, which began with a symbolic visit to Raila Odinga’s gravesite, underscores the faction’s strategy to consolidate support in Nyanza as it challenges the current ODM leadership and charts a new political path ahead of the next general election.
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