ODM Rift Deepens as Wanga Rebukes SifunaTensions are escalating within the Orange

 Democratic Movement (ODM) after party Chairperson Gladys Wanga publicly criticised Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna over remarks seen as contradicting the party’s official direction.

Wanga Defends Broad-Based Government Pact

Wanga reaffirmed ODM’s decision to engage with President William Ruto’s broad-based government — an arrangement initiated under the late Raila Odinga and formalised through a ten-point memorandum of understanding (MoU).

According to Wanga, the party leadership deliberately chose to honour Raila’s directive to cooperate with the Kenya Kwanza administration, describing the move as strategic rather than a betrayal of ODM’s core principles.

“There are processes and positions as a party,” she stated, warning that leaders who publicly oppose agreed positions risk creating confusion and weakening party cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections.

Internal Divisions Surface

Sifuna and a faction within ODM have increasingly criticised the broad-based government approach, arguing it dilutes the party’s role as an independent opposition force.

This group has organised “Linda Mwananchi” tours aimed at mobilising grassroots support and challenging what they see as excessive alignment with state power.

Critics within ODM, however, contend that public dissent from senior officials could fracture the party at a sensitive political moment and undermine preparations for the next general election.

Bigger Picture: Leadership and Strategy

Political observers suggest the dispute reflects deeper battles over ODM’s future direction and leadership following Raila Odinga’s death. 

Competing factions appear to be positioning themselves for influence as the 2027 election cycle approaches.

Wanga has signaled that ODM remains committed to the MoU and cooperation framework — and warned that members who openly defy the party line could face disciplinary action.

As the internal debate intensifies, the party’s ability to maintain unity while balancing cooperation and independence may prove decisive in shaping its electoral prospects.