The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has officially rejected all recent leadership changes because of their implementation through illegal methods. The political dispute that emerged between internal opponents of the party now has the potential to create permanent divisions within the organization before the 2027 general elections.
The political parties registrar received John Cox Lorionokou’s letter, which ODM Executive Director Oduor Ong’wen used to explain that former President Uhuru Kenyatta conducted an unauthorized council meeting on February 2, 2026, which led to leadership changes that included the appointment of Kalonzo Musyoka as Azimio party leader. The appointment of Caroli Omondi as Secretary-General will proceed with Philip Kisia as Executive Director.
The coalition agreement establishes that coalition leaders from all constituent parties must decide who will lead their organizations. ODM refuses to accept any leadership changes based on council decisions, while party leaders from all affiliated groups must decide who will lead their parties. Because party leader Oburu Oginga was neither consulted nor involved before the changes were ratified, ODM insists the resolutions are ultra vires, null and void under the coalition’s governing documents.
The party’s letter requires all actions that come from the disputed meeting to be suspended immediately, while all related activities must stop until further notice because the party believes continuing with the process will lead to legal problems.
The AOM accused the Azimio affiliate party opposition of opposing the February 2 meeting because they believed it to be unlawful. ODM’s objection exists alongside other protests that other Azimio affiliate parties declared when they questioned the February 2 meeting and its decisions.
The leadership rift has intensified broader tensions within Azimio, with debates over internal governance, coalition unity, and strategic direction now spilling into public view. The rejection also comes amid scrutiny over the funding and organization of ODM’s controversial Linda Ground rallies, which have sparked additional political controversy.
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