The Orange Democratic Movement faces its most serious internal test since the death of Raila Odinga. Power struggles now dominate the party barely months after Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga took over the leadership.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has moved to the centre of this storm. He wants the top seat. He wants it fast. His bold demands have split the party into hostile camps. Senior leaders now trade accusations in public. Grassroots members feel confused and angry. With 2027 looming, ODM Wars threaten to weaken a party that once thrived on unity and discipline.
Babu Owino has openly declared his intention to take over ODM leadership. He made the remarks during an interview with NTV on Thursday, January 8. He said the party must call a National Delegates Conference immediately.
According to him, the conference would correct what he calls an illegal and incompetent leadership arrangement. He insists that ODM failed to follow procedure after Raila Odinga’s death. He believes that failure gives him a legitimate opening.
The MP argues that ODM needs fresh energy and a clear political direction. He claims the current leadership lacks both. Babu says party members feel sidelined and ignored. He insists that only a proper delegates conference can restore internal democracy. His remarks have excited his supporters while alarming his critics. The standoff now defines ODM Wars.
ODM Wars Expose Fight For Control and Direction
At the heart of the ODM wars lies a deep disagreement over power and ideology. Babu Owino leads a faction that rejects ODM’s cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration. He believes the party has abandoned its role as a strong opposition force. He accuses the current leadership of trading principle for comfort.
Oburu Odinga stands on the opposite side. He supports the broad-based arrangement with Ruto’s government. He says the move follows the wishes of his late brother Raila Odinga. Oburu argues that cooperation helps stabilize the country and protect ODM’s long-term interests. His allies insist that the party must act responsibly, not emotionally.
This divide has hardened positions. Leaders now speak in sharp tones. Meetings end with more questions than answers. The ODM wars no longer simmer quietly. They now play out in the open.
Babu Owino challenges legitimacy of current leadership
Babu Owino has attacked the process that placed Oburu Odinga at the helm. He says ODM skipped critical constitutional steps. He claims no proper election took place. He describes the leadership as irregular and incompetent. He wants delegates to decide the future.
During a meeting on Thursday, January 8, Babu appeared with other senior ODM figures. The group included Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, former Attorney General Amos Wako, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga. Their presence signalled serious backing. It also sent a strong message to Oburu’s camp.
Babu has framed his push as a rescue mission. He says ODM risks losing relevance. He argues that only bold leadership can revive the party. He repeated his controversial line that after Baba, it should be Babu. That statement has angered veterans and excited youthful supporters.
Oburu Odinga allies push back hard
Leaders loyal to Oburu Odinga have dismissed Babu’s claims. They say the party followed the law. They insist Oburu remains the right leader to guide ODM through a delicate transition. They accuse rivals of selfish ambition and indiscipline.
Suna East MP Junet Mohamed has emerged as a fierce defender of Oburu. Speaking during a public event in late December, Junet criticized members who position themselves for the presidency. He said the party constitution bars such moves. He stressed that only the party leader can make that call.
Junet said ODM members must wait for Oburu’s decision on the 2027 race. He warned against premature declarations. His remarks targeted Babu without naming him. They highlighted the growing hostility within ODM Wars.
Oburu himself has spoken with confidence. He says he still has the strength to lead. He says he will not allow anyone to destroy the legacy Raila Odinga built over decades. He has vowed to sit firmly on the party leader seat.
ODM wars raise stakes ahead of 2027 elections
Babu Owino has tied his leadership push to the 2027 general election. He says ODM must field a strong presidential candidate. He believes the party can defeat President Ruto. He accuses skeptics of lacking vision. He calls them dealers rather than leaders.
He promises that once he takes charge, ODM will return to the people. He says Kenyans suffer under the current government. He argues that ODM must speak boldly for them. His message resonates with sections of the youth and urban voters.
Oburu’s camp sees danger in this approach. They fear open rebellion could fracture the party. They warn that ODM Wars could hand rivals an easy victory. They prefer stability and gradual reorganisation.
The party now stands at a crossroads. A National Delegates Conference could calm tempers or deepen divisions. Either way, the battle lines remain clear.
ODM wars have entered a decisive phase. The outcome will shape the party’s future and its role in national politics. If leaders fail to manage the conflict, ODM risks tearing itself apart. If they find common ground, the party could emerge stronger. For now, the fight continues, loud and unforgiving.
