The Orange Democratic Movement ODM faces new internal conflicts following Raila Odinga Junior and Winnie Odinga’s response to Edwin Sifuna’s removal as party secretary general, which reveals ongoing power struggles within Kenya’s major political organization. The factions currently fight over control of the party while preparing for the 2027 elections.
Sifuna, who serves as Nairobi senator, lost his position on Wednesday after the National Executive Committee meeting in Mombasa, where party leaders raised doubts about internal unity and strategic planning. The decision faced immediate resistance from Raila Junior and Winnie, who released statements indicating party members might have different opinions about recent leadership changes.
Raila Junior used social media to state that “the finest steel must go through the hottest fire,” which he used to explain Sifuna’s removal as one of several tests that prominent leaders must undergo. His statement, which analysts view as a defense of strength and values, has generated rumors that young members of the party increasingly support the former secretary general, who faces difficulties.
Winnie Odinga, a member of the East African Legislative Assembly, sharply criticized the NEC decision through her Facebook page, where she posted “It is not well,” which serves as a direct criticism of party leadership from an Odinga family member. Her statement complements her previous public remarks, where she objected to efforts that targeted party members who maintain loyalty to Raila’s political legacy.
The Odinga siblings’ reactions show that some ODM supporters have greater anxiety about party management and its current direction since the death of its former leader. Winnie previously expressed her disapproval of leadership transitions that occurred without proper grassroots consultation, which now corresponds with current worries about procedural justice.
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