Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has criticised the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Linda Ground faction led by Oburu Odinga, warning that Western Kenya could reconsider its political allegiance if the region continues to be sidelined.
Speaking in Lugari, Kakamega County on Friday, April 24, Oparanya expressed concern over what he described as growing disregard for Western leaders within the party’s current leadership. The former ODM deputy party leader compared the situation to the era of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saying the region previously enjoyed recognition and inclusion.
He cautioned ODM leaders against taking Western support for granted, insisting that respect and inclusion must remain central to the party’s operations. Oparanya noted that leaders from the region played a significant role in building ODM but now feel excluded from key decisions and power-sharing structures.
The CS further claimed that the current leadership appears more focused on negotiating positions within President William Ruto’s administration than addressing grassroots concerns. He emphasised that Western Kenya leaders are equally interested in political influence and should not be overlooked.
Oparanya warned that continued marginalisation could trigger a political shift ahead of the 2027 General Election. His remarks come amid rising divisions within ODM, including the emergence of the Linda Mwananchi faction led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
The faction is expected to launch activities in Vihiga before holding a major rally in Kisumu, even as ODM explores a possible alliance with the United Democratic Alliance.