Intensifying pressure within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has forced party leader Oburu Oginga to take decisive steps in a bid to protect his seat, as fresh attempts to remove him from office take a new twist.
Oburu on Monday convened an emergency meeting of ODM’s top decision-making organ, the Central Management Committee (CMC), in Kilifi County, a move seen as aimed at containing growing rebellion within the party.
The meeting comes amid sustained calls by some leaders for the Siaya senator to step aside, barely months after he was endorsed as party leader following the death of Raila Odinga in 2025.
Sources within ODM say the crisis talks could either ease tensions or further inflame divisions, especially with the 2027 General Election expected to dominate discussions.
Among the contentious issues is ODM’s cooperation with President William Ruto’s Broad-Based Government, which has triggered sharp exchanges between Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Minority Leader Junet Mohamed.
The pressure on Oburu has also been fueled by demands from a section of party members for the convening of the National Delegates Conference (NDC), with critics questioning the legality of his leadership.
Migori Senator Eddy Oketch last week escalated tensions by pushing for Sifuna’s removal from Senate committees and the party, a move later blocked by Oburu and Mama Ida Odinga.
Despite the backlash, Oburu has dismissed attempts to undermine his authority, daring critics to challenge him through formal party structures.
He has reiterated his willingness to convene the NDC, insisting he is not afraid of scrutiny.
However, divisions continue to widen. Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi protested the timing of the CMC meeting, saying his request for postponement was ignored, while Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and some Coast leaders have openly hinted at the need for new leadership.
As ODM grapples with internal rifts over leadership, government cooperation and succession politics, Oburu’s emergency meeting is widely viewed as a crucial test of his grip on the party and its future direction.
By Creatorhub