Internal factions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have stepped up their grassroots political activities as competition intensifies for control of the party’s traditional strongholds ahead of the 2027 general elections.
One faction led by ODM leader Oburu Oginga has launched a series of political meetings as part of preparations for a possible coalition agreement with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) led by President William Ruto.
On the other hand, the Linda Mwananchi faction led by the party’s Secretary-General has intensified nationwide meetings, preparing for a major political announcement expected in September that will determine whether it will join an opposition coalition led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
During a National Executive Committee meeting held on Monday, Oburu’s faction resolved to continue an aggressive campaign of member recruitment and grassroots mobilization to strengthen the party.
The party has scheduled a consultative meeting in Kwale aimed at reviving ODM’s support in the county ahead of 2027.
A statement from the party said the objective is to “strengthen its strongholds in preparation for the next general election.”
Another meeting is planned for Busia on June 28, focusing mainly on youth from all seven sub-counties to discuss the youth agenda within ODM.
Meanwhile, the Sifuna-aligned wing has organized additional political meetings across the country, which are expected to culminate in a major announcement in Nairobi in September.
The plan targets reaching at least 24 counties before the final political declaration.
The opposition coalition, led by Gachagua and Kalonzo Musyoka, has already expressed interest in working with the Linda Mwananchi faction to front a single presidential candidate to challenge President Ruto.
The group has conducted 11 political tours in various regions including Nairobi, Kitengela, Busia, Kisumu, Mombasa, Machakos, and Kakamega.
Last week, leaders from the faction including Sifuna, Governor James Orengo, and Senator Godfrey Osotsi held a major rally in Thika, an event seen as their formal entry into the Mount Kenya region.
Osotsi said the group has planned more than 10 meetings before the Nairobi announcement in September, emphasizing that they will continue listening to public views before making final political decisions.
The faction also plans meetings in Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Kilifi, Kwale, and even Eldoret—President Ruto’s stronghold—before proceeding to Siaya, Migori, and Homa Bay.
New political figures including Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, former MP Alfred Keter, and former Cabinet Secretary Irungu Nyakera have joined the group, with more expected to follow.
In another development, Sifuna said coalition talks with the opposition have gained momentum, stressing the goal of unseating President Ruto in the next election.
A TIFA poll published last month showed the Kalonzo-Sifuna ticket with 28% support, followed by Kalonzo-Matiang’i at 31%.The question who will blink first.
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