A fierce power struggle has burst into the open inside the Orange Democratic Movement. Party leader Oburu Odinga has issued a bold challenge to rebels questioning his authority. He has told them to stop shouting from the sidelines and face him at the National Delegates Conference.
His message targets a growing faction led by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino. With unity under threat, Oburu has moved to reclaim control, defend his record, and set the stage for a decisive ODM NDC that could redefine the party’s future.
Oburu Odinga Faces Down Rebels Over ODM NDC Authority
Oburu Odinga has launched a hard-hitting response to ODM rebels who dispute his leadership. He spoke firmly during a funeral in Siaya County on Friday, January 9. He dismissed claims that he grabbed power without following party rules. He told critics to stop public attacks and prepare for a formal test at the ODM NDC.
Oburu said the party constitution provides a clear path to resolve disputes. He argued that the National Delegates Conference offers the only lawful arena to challenge leadership. He vowed to convene the meeting soon to settle the growing storm inside ODM.
He challenged every critic to present evidence and arguments before delegates. He warned that continued infighting risks tearing the party apart at a critical political moment.
Oburu Issues Direct Challenge to Babu Owino
Oburu’s sharp words landed one day after a secret meeting by senior ODM figures. The group included Babu Owino, Ruth Odinga, Edwin Sifuna, Millie Odhiambo, and Amos Wako. After the meeting, Babu Owino openly declared his ambition to take over the party leadership.
The Embakasi East MP told a television audience that ODM should call an ODM NDC immediately. He insisted that the party failed to follow procedure during the recent leadership transition. He said he stood ready to step in and lead.
Oburu responded with confidence. He told Babu Owino and his allies to stop campaigning through the media. He said the ODM NDC would test their popularity and ideas in front of delegates from across the country.
Rebels Accused of Public Grandstanding
Oburu accused his critics of weakening the party through public drama. He said responsible leaders should protect internal processes. He warned that endless press statements damage ODM’s image and bargaining power.
He stressed that the ODM NDC would give every member a fair hearing. He said no one would block debate or suppress dissent. He added that discipline and order must guide the process.
His remarks painted rebels as impatient politicians chasing shortcuts. He urged them to respect structures built over decades.
Oburu Defends Role in Broad Coalition Talks
Oburu also pushed back against claims that he lacks political weight. Some critics argue that ODM’s influence within government depends only on Raila Odinga. Oburu rejected that narrative strongly.
He said he chaired all key talks between ODM and President William Ruto’s team. He listed meetings that produced major cabinet appointments. These included Opiyo Wandayi, John Mbadi, Hassan Joho, and Wycliffe Oparanya.
He said his leadership delivered results through negotiation and strategy. He insisted that ODM leaders earned their positions through structured engagement, not favors.
ODM NDC Seen as Tool to Restore Unity
Oburu framed the ODM NDC as a healing platform. He said the party must speak with one voice before entering tough political talks. He warned that division would weaken ODM during negotiations with partners.
He revealed plans to form a strong negotiation team. The team will first engage partners within the current arrangement. If talks collapse, the party will explore other alliances.
He said unity would determine how much ODM gains. He urged members to rally behind the party and grow its membership.
High Stakes Ahead of Future Elections
Oburu declared that this year would shape ODM’s political destiny. He said negotiations would test loyalty and patience. He promised firm bargaining to secure the party’s share of power.
He also dropped a major political signal. He said ODM could contest future elections alone if alliances fail. That path, he noted, would make him the party’s automatic presidential candidate.
With tensions rising, all eyes now turn to the ODM NDC. The conference will decide whether Oburu tightens his grip or whether rebels led by Babu Owino can rewrite the party script.
