Nairobi: A section of elders from Vihiga County, led by former Makadara MP Fred Omido, have instructed members and delegates of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party from the Western Region to boycott the Oburu Oginga’s led National Delegates Conference scheduled for Friday, March 27, 2026.
According to Kenya News Agency, former Makadara MP Fred Omido stated that he had convened a meeting with other elders from Vihiga County, along with the Chairman of ODM Vihiga County, Zebedee Osabwa, to deliberate on the state of politics within the country and ODM. Omido emphasized that as founding members of the party, they have observed ongoing conflicts within the party with concern.
Omido highlighted issues such as meetings being convened without adhering to proper rules and guidelines, and party members being elected to positions without following the constitution and laws governing ODM. He claimed the Oburu-led National Delegates Conference is not legitimate and warned that delegates from the Western Region attending the meeting would be labeled as traitors.
He further reiterated that a meeting convened by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi’s faction is the legitimate one, urging all delegates to attend this meeting instead. Omido also called for support of the Sifuna, Osotsi, and Amisi-led faction, stressing the importance of maintaining strength and steadfastness within the country and the party. He encouraged the youth to embrace Siaya County Governor James Orengo, who is aligned with the Sifuna group.
Victor Kadambi, representing the youth from ODM Vihiga County, expressed solidarity with their leaders, Senators Edwin Sifuna and Godfrey Osotsi, and pledged to boycott the Oburu-led Friday’s NDC, citing it as unstructured and lacking in transparency. Kadambi mentioned plans to use the day to promote voter registration as part of the ‘Niko Kadi’ initiative, emphasizing the significance of voting in upcoming elections.
Javan Oscar Bulemi, Chairman of the Tiriki Elders, voiced his dissatisfaction with the current state of ODM, observing that the party is seemingly being overshadowed by the smaller United Democratic Alliance (UDA). He urged party leaders to honor the late Raila Odinga’s vision for ODM’s future and cautioned against attending the Oburu’s NDC, labeling it a betrayal of Raila’s wishes.
Omido condemned recent public exchanges of insults among leaders, urging them to be mindful of their words. He concluded by expressing support for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, emphasizing that the support is based on shared views and opinions rather than ethnic allegiance.
