ODM Rift 2025: Raila Odinga Urges Calm Amid Tensions Over UDA MoU
ODM leader Raila Odinga has addressed growing concerns over a potential ODM rift in 2025, calling for calm and decorum within the party following public criticism from Siaya Governor James Orengo. The tension stems from the recently signed ODM and UDA MoU, which has triggered sharp divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement.
In an official statement issued by his spokesperson Dennis Onyango, Odinga urged ODM members and leaders to engage respectfully as they debate the party’s future relationship with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration.
“Mr. Odinga appeals to ODM members and leaders to exercise decorum, civility, restraint, and respect for each other as they debate the current state of affairs and the future of the party,” read part of the statement.
The ODM party boss noted that the broad-based government deal was still under internal review and assured members that ODM’s leadership would soon harmonize divergent views and offer a unified position.
“These discussions are not unique to ODM. They are part of the normal political discourse that occurs even in mature democracies,” Odinga stated.
Orengo’s Defiance Fuels ODM Rift in 2025
The controversy ignited after Governor Orengo openly criticized the ODM-UDA partnership during the burial of Odinga’s longtime bodyguard, George Oduor.
“I cannot be a praise-singer. We fought for a democratic Constitution. Kenyans must speak the truth to their leaders,” Orengo declared.
His remarks highlighted the emerging rift within ODM in 2025, pitting party loyalists against leaders wary of aligning too closely with the Kenya Kwanza government.
ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi responded by reaffirming Raila’s leadership, stating that while internal democracy is allowed, the final word lies with the party leader.
“Raila Odinga is our party leader, and what he says is what we follow,” Osotsi said.
Political Barbs Between Ruto and ODM Leaders
The ODM turmoil escalated further during the same funeral when Secretary General Edwin Sifuna criticized the government for allegedly frustrating Raila’s political efforts. President Ruto responded swiftly, warning Sifuna against undermining the State.
“Nimeskia Sifuna anaongea na nguvu… ukinisukuma sana, nitaitisha mkutano ya founder members wa ODM… tukufanyie discipline,” Ruto cautioned.
These public confrontations underscore the fragility of the ODM-UDA collaboration and have intensified scrutiny of Raila’s next move as pressure mounts from both supporters and critics.
What’s Next for ODM?
As the ODM rift in 2025 continues to dominate political headlines, Raila Odinga has pledged to consult with the party’s organs before charting the next course. His call for unity comes at a critical time as ODM navigates internal dissent and a shifting political landscape.
Observers believe the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether the ODM-UDA partnership can survive or if the party is heading toward a full-blown fallout.
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ODM Rift 2025: Raila Odinga Urges Calm Amid Tensions Over UDA MoU