Orange Democratic Movement Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna on Thursday led a parallel “Linda Mwananchi” convention at Ufungamano House, directly challenging a rival National Delegates Convention convened by Oburu Odinga at Jamhuri Grounds.
The competing meetings underscored escalating tensions within ODM, one of Kenya’s leading opposition parties, with factions locked in a struggle for control. Oburu’s gathering included plans to remove Sifuna from his position, marking a significant escalation in the internal dispute.
The “People’s Convention,” organized by the Linda Mwananchi faction, proceeded after leaders forced their way past a police blockade that had briefly delayed access to the venue.
Leaders rally support amid tensions
Senior party officials, including ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi, Siaya Senator James Orengo, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, emerged to formally open the meeting.
“Let police not try anything stupid, we are here legally and we issued a notice of this meeting,” Sifuna said, drawing cheers from supporters.
Sifuna described the gathering as representing the “true” ODM aligned with party founder Raila Odinga. He accused rival factions of infiltration and reiterated opposition to President William Ruto’s administration.
“This is the people’s convention,” he said. “We will not join hands with Ruto.”
The session briefly faced disruption when some attendees objected to the presence of police officers at the venue entrance.
At Jamhuri Grounds, Oburu Odinga presided over a separate Special Delegates Convention, where the proposed removal of Sifuna was listed among key agenda items.
The dual conventions reflect widening cracks within ODM following leadership transitions and strategic disagreements. Sifuna has remained defiant despite mounting pressure, framing his faction as defending the party’s original ideals.
Observers say the standoff could have lasting implications for ODM’s unity and its role in Kenya’s opposition politics ahead of future elections.
