Mombasa: Calls for unity and reconciliation took centre stage as ODM kicked off a three-day retreat in Mombasa, against the backdrop of escalating internal divisions within the party. The retreat, which began on Sunday, has brought together Members of Parliament, County Assembly leaders, the National Executive Council, and Cabinet secretaries incorporated into the Broad-Based Government.
According to Kenya News Agency, ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga stated that the meeting aims to address party unity, inclusivity, and the strategic direction ahead of the 2027 elections and beyond. Party Leader Oburu Oginga was absent during the opening session but is expected to join the retreat today.
The meeting comes amid the emergence of two factions – Linda Ground and Linda Mwananchi – and weeks after leadership changes that saw Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi removed as Deputy Party Leader. The Linda Mwananchi faction, led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, skipped the opening session, which was largely attended by members aligned to the Linda Ground faction.
The party has been grappling with internal unrest following the sudden demise of its founding leader, the late Raila Odinga. While some leaders support the government, others have opposed the broad-based arrangement. ODM Deputy Party Leader and Kisii Governor Simba Arati affirmed that the contribution of Raila Odinga to both the party and the nation will endure for generations.
Arati noted that the party is anchored not on personalities but on a constitution that provides clarity, structure, and continuity. He reaffirmed that Dr Oburu Oginga is the Party Leader, days after Siaya Governor James Orengo declared himself Acting Party Leader.
He emphasised that all members must respect those entrusted with leadership ‘not as a matter of convenience but as a matter of constitutional obligation and political discipline.’ The Deputy Party Leader stressed that unity is not optional, warning that without it, the party risks disintegration. He extended an olive branch to the Linda Mwananchi faction, urging them to return.
Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi said that while the country has a robust democracy and constitution, ethnicity remains a key foundation that must be addressed by building parties that transcend ethnic boundaries.
Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho expressed his ambitions of leading the party after serving as Deputy Party Leader under the late Raila Odinga for 10 years but stressed that the party is greater than individual aspirations.
Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Nassir emphasised the need for unity now more than ever, urging members to preserve the party’s identity. He called on members to rally together and strengthen the movement, recalling past coalition arrangements.
