Tensions in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) increased on May 4, 2025, when Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga publicly challenged Siaya Governor James Orengo.
Oburu urged Orengo to leave the party if he disagrees with their support for President William Ruto’s broad-based government.
At a church gathering in Migori County, Oburu defended ODM’s cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza government. He said their decision was based on a shared agreement to provide better services for Kenyans.
“If James Orengo is tired of ODM, then let him go. Who is he to tell us what to do? We are partners in this broad-based government,” Oburu stated, stressing that the party’s actions are based on unity, not individual goals.
His comments were aimed at Orengo’s strong criticism of the Ruto government and the ODM’s alliance with it, which Orengo has called a “disgrace” and a “failure.”
Orengo, a long-time member of ODM and a supporter of party leader Raila Odinga, has accused the government of poor economic management and violating human rights.
He believes that ODM’s partnership with the government goes against the party’s values and the struggles of its supporters, especially those harmed during protests against the government.
At a recent funeral in Siaya, Orengo told Kenyans to “speak the truth to their leaders,” warning that the country could be in danger under the current leadership.
Oburu’s strong criticism revealed divisions within ODM. Some party members, like Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, are supporting Raila’s decision to work with the broad-based government.
Raila, who signed an agreement with Ruto, has stated that ODM is still in opposition and not in a formal coalition. He defended critics like Orengo and Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o from claims of disloyalty.
Oburu Odinga: If James Orengo is tired of ODM, then let him leave. Who is to lecture us? Sisi ni shareholders kwa hii serikali ya broad-based. pic.twitter.com/RxjKx0t0ou
— Cornelius K. Ronoh (@itskipronoh) May 4, 2025
The Ramogi Professional Caucus, a group of Luo professionals, has even threatened to push for Orengo’s impeachment for going against the ODM-UDA agreement, increasing pressure on the governor.
As ODM faces this internal conflict, experts say the disagreement could affect the party’s strength and influence before the 2027 elections.
Raila has promised to hold a crisis meeting to address the differences within the party, and party spokesperson Philip Etale said they will provide more information about the broad-based government soon.
