Oburu Odinga has bowed to mounting pressure from Embakasi East MP Babu Owino after the outspoken legislator openly questioned his leadership and demanded the immediate convening of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) National Delegates Conference (NDC).
The ODM leader on Friday, January 9, hit back at internal critics during a funeral ceremony in Siaya County, daring those challenging his legitimacy to face him at the party’s NDC—an event he confirmed would now be convened within the month.
Oburu’s remarks come days after Babu Owino warned that continued delays in holding the NDC would force him and other dissatisfied members to mobilise and take over the party’s leadership, accusing the current leadership of overstaying without fresh elections.
In what appeared to be a direct response to the ultimatum, Oburu said claims that he was not validly elected should stop being aired in public forums and instead be formally tabled at the delegates’ meeting.
“The NDC is the right platform to resolve these issues,” Oburu said, insisting that the party’s challenges would be addressed internally once delegates convene.
Babu Owino has in recent weeks intensified pressure on the ODM leadership, portraying himself as the voice of a restless youthful wing seeking accountability, reforms, and fresh elections within the party.
Political observers say Oburu’s decision to announce the NDC timeline signals a strategic retreat aimed at containing a looming rebellion and preventing a full-blown leadership showdown within ODM.