Winnie Odinga, daughter of veteran politician Raila Odinga, has sounded the alarm, revealing that some senior members within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are allegedly plotting to wrest control of the party from the Odinga family.
Speaking with conviction, #Winnie(Raila’s daughter) warned that these maneuvers could fracture the party if left unchecked.
“Raila left us just a while ago. Relax, why are you in a hurry? Let us talk first, come to an agreement, so that we can move on together. As a family, we do not belong to any faction. We remain team Raila,” she emphasized, underlining her commitment to unity within #ODM. Her remarks reflected deep concern that internal power plays could overshadow the party’s broader mission and alienate its grassroots supporters.
Winnie was categorical in her assertion that no member would be expelled from ODM, insisting that even her father, Raila Odinga, would have opposed such actions. “Nobody will be removed from the party. They talk too much, and when we ask questions, they tell us to leave the party. If we leave, who will they remain with? This is a people’s party, and when we leave, we will leave with the people,” she stated.
Her comments highlighted the delicate balance between party leadership and the voices of ordinary members, emphasizing that ODM’s strength lies in its inclusivity rather than in internal power struggles.
The MP further accused certain leaders of attempting to emulate Raila Odinga’s leadership style, warning that no one could replace the former Prime Minister. She argued that such imitation not only undermines genuine leadership but also risks dividing the party at a time when cohesion is critical. Winnie’s statements come amid growing speculation about ODM’s succession and direction, signaling a possible intensification of internal debates as the party charts its future.
Her intervention underscores the Odinga family’s continued influence and the ongoing challenge of preserving unity in one of Kenya’s most prominent political parties.
This marks a pivotal moment for ODM, as it navigates both generational change and the pressures of staying relevant in Kenya’s evolving political landscape.