Delegates of the Orange Democratic Movement have ratified the election of Oburu Oginga as party leader during a National Delegates Convention held at Jamhuri ASK Grounds in Nairobi.
The decision marks a significant shift in the party’s leadership structure and signals a new phase for one of Kenya’s main opposition parties. The convention also endorsed Kisii Governor Simba Arati and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir as deputy party leaders.
However, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi was removed from his role as deputy leader. ODM Director of Elections Junet Mohamed said Osotsi’s nomination was invalid because it lacked both a proposer and a seconder.
The resolutions adopted at Jamhuri have intensified divisions within the party. A rival faction led by ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna rejected the convention’s legitimacy.
Speaking at a parallel meeting at Ufungamano House, Sifuna accused the Oburu-led group of undermining ODM’s founding ideals.
“The resolutions do not reflect the will of the people,” Sifuna said, addressing delegates aligned to the “Linda Mwananchi” faction.
The competing conventions highlight a growing rift that could reshape ODM’s political direction ahead of future elections.
At the same Ufungamano gathering, Siaya Governor James Orengo urged young Kenyans to actively defend democratic gains amid rising political tensions.
Orengo praised delegates who accessed the venue despite an earlier police blockade, describing their actions as part of Kenya’s broader struggle for democratic freedoms.
He warned that complacency could erode hard-won gains, urging youth to remain vigilant and engaged in governance processes.
The parallel meetings and conflicting resolutions underscore a period of uncertainty within ODM. Analysts say the outcome could influence alliances and voter confidence as political realignments take shape.
While the Oburu-led faction moves to consolidate control, the Sifuna camp’s resistance suggests the dispute is far from settled.
