Raila to chair ODM top organ meeting as he seeks to quell party dissent over Ruto deal
Raila's move is intended to calm an uneasy storm ignited by differences over whether the party should support and work closely with President William Ruto, including supporting his reelection bid.
Orange Democratic Movement Party leader Raila Odinga will on Monday move to quell dissent in his party ahead of his planned announcement on the political direction to take this week.
Raila's move is intended to calm an uneasy storm ignited by differences over whether the party should support and work closely with President William Ruto, including supporting his reelection bid.
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This would be the first time Raila would be chairing ODM's Central Management Committee since he stepped aside to concentrate on his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship and named Kisumu governor Prof Anyang' Nyong'o as the acting party leader.
One of the ODM's deputy party leaders Godfrey Osotsi said the meeting would discuss among other issues, whether to formalise a coalition arrangement with the Kenya Kwanza.
The Vihiga Senator said the meeting will provide a platform for ODM leaders to chart the way forward in strengthening the party's position both locally and on the continental stage.
"As a party, we have not entered into any arrangement with any party, but tomorrow's meeting will decide on how to move forward. I know Kenyans are anxious about the next move our party leader will take," Osotsi said.
President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga at State House, Mombasa on February 24, 2025. (Photo: PCS)
According to Osotsi, the meeting is not just about reflecting on past failures but also about laying a foundation for the future of the ODM and its role in shaping Kenya's political landscape. In his view, the outcomes of the meeting could have far-reaching implications for the party's strategies and its supporters in the months ahead.
The differences in the party, that have played out in public, have painted the Orange outfit as disunited. Over the weekend, Siaya Senator James Orengo while speaking in Siaya at a funeral cautioned ODM members to go slow on the push to fully join the broad-based government.
Orengo's caution appears to stem from a desire to maintain focus and stability within the party during a politically tumultuous time.
He emphasised the need for the ODM leadership, including Raila, to proceed with consultation across the country but avoid hasty decisions.
"I want to caution my colleagues not to be so excited about this broad-based government. We must tread carefully. We must be careful not to just sing their chorus," said Orengo.
His remarks came after Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi voiced his support for the collaboration between Raila and President William Ruto. Atandi told the mourners that the region could reap big benefits if it rallies behind President Ruto ahead of the 2027 polls.
"I want to urge our members to support this government. I talked to Raila and he promised me that I would get a plum position. If I get it, you shall all reap from the position," said Atandi amidst applause.
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