The opposition political situation in Kenya faces a serious disruption because of an intense internal conflict that occurred when EALA MP Winnie Odinga publicly criticized the Orange Democratic Movement leadership transfer process for its unconstitutionality and lack of transparency and its violation of party principles.
Her national television statements have worsened existing internal party conflicts while creating conditions for an unprecedented conflict that will determine the party’s upcoming path.
Odinga explained his criticism of ODM’s leadership succession process, which began after Raila Odinga’s death, during his January 27, 2026, appearance on the Citizen TV show The Explainer. She accused senior party officials of allowing a small clique to dictate critical decisions without consultation with party members or adherence to constitutional procedures.
Odinga challenged Dr. Oburu Oginga’s appointment as acting party leader because he believed the party constitution required a National Delegates Convention to approve such leadership changes. She declared that ODM requires NDC approval before both the National Executive Council and Central Committee can initiate any official activities, while she described current leadership as “misrepresented” and lacking proper legal procedures.
The party has not executed its mission according to its established requirements for transparency because it failed to achieve its goals. Odinga criticized party officials because they did not notify members about Raila Odinga’s death, and they made secret decisions about leadership positions.
She condemned party organs for their action to gather a National Governing Council and start discussions with the United Democratic Alliance while the party was in mourning because she considered their behavior disrespectful and their procedures improper.
The process received her harsh criticism because she wanted to separate her constitutional issues from her family relationship with her uncle Oburu, who chaired the ODM party.
Younger leaders within ODM demand an immediate National Delegates Conference to establish the party’s direction for the 2027 General Election, while other groups support coalition negotiations with the ruling party.
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