A statement attributed to Winnie Odinga has stirred political debate after she publicly criticized her uncle, Oburu Odinga, over ongoing disagreements within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
In the strongly worded remarks, Winnie expressed disappointment with the political direction taken by some senior leaders within the party. She compared her uncle’s actions to global political figures, arguing that age should not limit one’s ability to focus on serious national and international issues.
“I am very ashamed of my uncle Oburu Odinga. People like Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei are 86 years old and they are playing big boys’ games like nuclear wars with America, whereas my uncle Oburu, who is 81 years old, is busy fighting with Sifuna and Babu Owino in ODM and planning to teargas innocent Kenyans. Style up,” she said.
The comments come at a time when tensions within ODM have intensified, with visible disagreements involving leaders such as Edwin Sifuna and Babu Owino. The disputes have been linked to leadership struggles and differing visions for the future of the party.
Political gatherings linked to these disagreements have at times turned chaotic, including rallies where teargas was reportedly used to disperse crowds. These incidents have fueled accusations and counter-accusations among rival factions within the party.
Winnie’s remarks highlight the growing generational tension within the party, where younger leaders and supporters are increasingly demanding a shift in leadership style and priorities. Her comments also reflect frustration among some members who believe internal conflicts are distracting the party from addressing national issues.
Despite the heated rhetoric, ODM leaders have continued to call for unity and dialogue as the party navigates internal challenges ahead of future political contests.
As debates continue, the controversy underscores the deep divisions shaping the party’s current political landscape and the broader conversation about leadership, accountability, and the future of opposition politics in Kenya.