ODM party leader Oburu Oginga addressed the noticeable absence of Senators Edwin Sifuna and Godfrey Osotsi at the Central Management Committee meeting in Vipingo, Kilifi County, on January 12, 2026. The gathering brought together senior party officials to discuss internal matters and emerging political issues. Oburu emphasized unity and dialogue during the session, noting that the party remains strong despite some members not attending.
The meeting took place at Vipingo Ridge Golf Resort. Photos shared online show Oburu chairing the discussions with figures like Junet Mohamed, Gladys Wanga, and John Mbadi present.
Attendees focused on party direction, membership engagement, and responses to recent national developments. Oburu spoke about building on institutions and structures within ODM. He urged calm and open talks to resolve any differences.
Sifuna serves as ODM Secretary General. Osotsi is Deputy Party Leader. Their absence stood out, especially after recent tensions. Reports from late 2025 and early 2026 highlighted disputes over party positions and strategy.
Some members pushed for changes or a national delegates conference. Sifuna and Osotsi have been vocal on certain issues. Allies like Senator Odour Ong’wen also skipped the meeting.
Oburu downplayed the absences. He said the party is united and will emerge stronger. In comments after the session, he stressed that ODM handles matters internally through proper channels. No direct confrontation came up in public remarks. The focus stayed on moving forward together.
This gathering marks one of the first major ones under Oburu’s leadership since he took over following Raila Odinga’s AU role. Raila stepped back from day-to-day party affairs.
Oburu has worked to steady things amid questions about ODM’s place in the current political setup. Cooperation with the government on some issues divided opinions inside the party.
Vipingo provided a quiet spot away from Nairobi. The resort setting allowed for focused talks. Attendees arrived early Monday. Discussions covered party finances, grassroots mobilisation, and responses to national events. No major announcements came out right away. Minutes will guide next steps.
Absences like Sifuna’s and Osotsi’s fuel speculation. Some see it as a boycott over unresolved grievances. Others call it scheduling conflicts. Oburu avoided naming individuals in his unity call. He invited all to engage through party structures.
ODM has faced internal debates before. The party played a key opposition role for years. Recent shifts, including cabinet positions for members, changed dynamics. Grassroots supporters watch closely for direction ahead of future elections.
For now, the Vipingo meeting signals business as usual for most leaders. Oburu leads efforts to keep everyone on board. Time will show if absences resolve or grow.
Party members hope for smooth sailing. Unity messages aim to reassure the base. ODM remains a major force in Kenyan politics.
The coastal location highlighted regional strength too. Kilifi leaders attended in numbers. Local issues got airtime alongside national ones.
Oburu wrapped up positively. He said ODM is built to last. Followers online echoed calls for togetherness. This chapter adds to ongoing party story. Leaders navigate changes while keeping focus on goals.
