Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo has reacted to a striking change in political chants during Raila Odinga’s first death anniversary, where rival factions openly displayed their competing positions.
The incident occurred at Migwena Cultural Grounds in Bondo on Thursday, October 15, as leaders addressed thousands of mourners gathered to remember the former prime minister.
Supporters initially responded with “Tutam” chants when Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi spoke in support of ODM’s cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration. The mood changed when Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino took the podium, with sections of the crowd switching to “Wantam” chants.
The contrasting reactions illustrated the political differences surrounding ODM as leaders debate the party’s direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Wandayi has been associated with the faction supporting the broad-based government arrangement, while Sifuna and Babu have emerged as prominent figures in the Linda Mwananchi movement, which has taken a more critical position towards Ruto’s administration.
The atmosphere at the memorial became increasingly political despite calls from Raila’s family for the anniversary to remain focused on his life and legacy. The family had appealed to leaders and supporters from different political camps to avoid turning the occasion into a contest for political influence.
The rival slogans were not the only signs of tension at the gathering. Other leaders also faced contrasting reactions from sections of the crowd, with Sifuna, Babu and Siaya Governor James Orengo receiving a strong reception when they addressed mourners.
The episode has since drawn attention to the competing political messages being advanced around Raila’s legacy and ODM’s future.
For Millie, the rapid change in chants offered a revealing moment from an event that had been organised primarily to remember the late opposition leader, while also exposing the political contest unfolding around his former support base.