Political analyst Gilbert Owino has cast doubt on the show of unity displayed by top Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders during their press briefing on Monday, suggesting that the harmony was staged for public perception.
Speaking during a live interview on Citizen TV, Owino said the body language of some key figures, including Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, betrayed signs of unease and mistrust within the party.
He pointed out that while Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna delivered a strong message of unity, the atmosphere in the room told a different story.
“The unity we saw in the ODM party yesterday was made for the cameras,” Owino remarked. “As Sifuna was reading the statement, you could see Oburu Odinga peeping to confirm that what he was reading was exactly what they had discussed earlier. That was not confidence — that was control.”
The remarks have sparked heated debate online, with ODM supporters defending their leaders and accusing critics of trying to create division at a sensitive time following the death of party leader Raila Odinga.
Others, however, argued that the analyst’s comments reflected growing tension over ODM’s succession question.
ODM officials have repeatedly denied claims of internal friction, insisting that the party remains strong and united behind Raila’s vision.
Sifuna, in his Monday address, accused the media of exaggerating differences and assured supporters that ODM’s leadership structure was intact.
Analysts now believe the unfolding situation could shape Kenya’s opposition politics as the 2027 elections approach.
With Raila’s absence leaving a significant void, speculation continues to grow over who might take the mantle — a question that appears to be fueling both unity and quiet rivalry within ODM’s top ranks.
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