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Addressing Internal Divisions
Raila Odinga and ODM Chairman John Mbadi convened a critical press briefing at Capital Hill Square, Nairobi, to address simmering tensions and internal conflicts within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). The meeting came at a time when speculation about the party’s future leadership and concerns over disunity were dominating political discourse.
Odinga, known for his long-standing influence in Kenyan politics, did not mince words when he warned against internal factions threatening the party’s cohesion. He emphasized that ODM’s historical success has always been rooted in collective vision and unity of purpose. According to Odinga, allowing personal ambitions to supersede party interests would only weaken the movement, particularly as the political climate in the country continues to shift.
The ODM leader urged members to remain focused on the party’s broader mission rather than becoming entangled in power struggles. He reiterated that the strength of ODM lies in the unity of its membership and leadership. Any attempts to sow division, he warned, would ultimately play into the hands of their political opponents.
John Mbadi echoed these sentiments, acknowledging that while leadership ambitions were natural, they should be pursued through established processes rather than public confrontations. He cautioned against allowing disagreements to spill into the public domain, arguing that internal disputes should be handled within the party framework to preserve ODM’s image and credibility.
The Succession Debate Heats Up

A significant portion of the briefing focused on the increasing speculation about Raila Odinga’s eventual successor. With Odinga playing a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s political landscape, questions about who will lead ODM into the future have intensified in recent months. This speculation has fueled competition among party members, with various factions vying for influence.
John Mbadi took a firm stance on the matter, warning against premature and public jockeying for leadership positions. He argued that such behavior not only distracts from the party’s immediate goals but also risks creating irreversible fractures. According to Mbadi, succession discussions must be approached with caution and maturity, ensuring that ODM remains a unified force capable of advancing its political agenda.
Odinga, while addressing the issue, reassured members that the party has clear structures for leadership transitions. He emphasized that when the time comes, an orderly and democratic process will guide the selection of the next leader. Until then, he urged aspirants to exercise patience and refrain from activities that could disrupt party unity.
A Call for Unity and Loyalty
Throughout the briefing, both Odinga and Mbadi emphasized the need for unity and loyalty within ODM. They stressed that the party’s ability to influence national politics depends on maintaining a strong and cohesive front. Internal rivalries, they warned, only serve to weaken the party and provide openings for their political opponents.

Odinga reminded members of the party’s legacy of fighting for democratic rights and social justice. He argued that ODM’s mission extends beyond individual ambitions and that every member has a responsibility to protect the party’s integrity. Mbadi reinforced this message by calling on members to prioritize the collective good over personal gain.
In a thinly veiled warning, Odinga hinted that external forces may attempt to exploit internal divisions to undermine ODM’s influence. He urged party members to remain vigilant and to resist any attempts to sow discord. Both leaders made it clear that loyalty to the party and its principles is paramount as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Preparing for Grassroots Elections
As part of their strategy to strengthen ODM and address concerns about internal democracy, the leaders announced plans to conduct grassroots elections. This move, they argued, is essential for revitalizing the party’s leadership structures and ensuring broad-based representation across the country.

Odinga emphasized that the elections would be conducted in a transparent and inclusive manner, allowing all members to participate. According to him, these grassroots polls are not just an administrative exercise—they represent a critical opportunity to empower local leaders and give ordinary members a stronger voice in the party’s decision-making processes.
Mbadi added that the grassroots elections would help identify and elevate emerging leaders who share ODM’s vision and values. He emphasized that these elections are part of a broader effort to prepare the party for future political contests while reinforcing internal cohesion.
The leaders encouraged all members to engage actively in the electoral process and to view the elections as an opportunity to strengthen ODM from the ground up. They also warned against any attempts to disrupt the process, emphasizing that the party’s leadership would take a zero-tolerance approach to interference or irregularities.
Securing ODM’s Future

In their closing remarks, Odinga and Mbadi underscored the importance of securing ODM’s future through unity, disciplined leadership, and a clear succession plan. They promised that the party would remain committed to its core principles and continue to advocate for the interests of the Kenyan people.
Odinga expressed confidence that ODM would weather any internal challenges as long as members remained united. He highlighted the party’s track record of overcoming adversity and urged members to stay focused on the bigger picture—advancing ODM’s mission of democratic governance and social justice.
Mbadi reaffirmed the leadership’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and structured transition when the time comes. He called on party members to trust the process and to work together to strengthen ODM’s position as a major political force in Kenya.
The message from the Capital Hill briefing was clear: ODM’s future depends on unity, loyalty, and a shared commitment to the party’s ideals. Any deviation from these principles, the leaders warned, could jeopardize the party’s ability to remain a dominant force in Kenyan politics.
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