The Orange Democratic Movement has split into parallel rallies just three months after Raila Odinga’s death. Dr Oburu Oginga led one in Kakamega County to push for unity and tough talks with President Ruto’s UDA ahead of 2027. At the same time, Raila’s children Winnie and Raila Junior held large gatherings in Kibera and Kamukunji, speaking against any deals and calling on his legacy.
Oburu’s event took place in Kakamega town. Hundreds of delegates attended. He spoke about keeping the party strong. Oburu said ODM needs to negotiate hard for power-sharing. He pointed to the 2024 broad government deal as a start.
More gains could come for members and supporters. He urged leaders to avoid fights and work together. The crowd listened quietly. Some nodded in agreement.
In Nairobi, the mood differed. Winnie Odinga and Raila Junior drew big crowds in Kibera and Kamukunji. Thousands turned up. They spoke of their father’s fight against one-party rule. Winnie said Raila stood for change, not joining the government.
She warned against deals that weaken opposition. Raila Junior echoed that. He said the party should stay true to its roots. People cheered loudly. Banners showed Raila’s photo with messages of legacy.
Raila Odinga died on October 15, 2025, from a heart attack at age 80. Kenya mourned the long-time leader. He ran for president five times. His push for rights and fairness shaped politics.
ODM grew under him as a strong opposition voice. His death left a gap. Oburu, his brother, took interim charge. But family members like Winnie step in more now.
The splits show more profound issues. Some in ODM want practical deals with Ruto for jobs and projects. They call it pragmatism. Others fear it betrays Raila’s fight. Hardliners say ODM loses its voice in government. They want to challenge in 2027, not share power. The parallel rallies highlight that divide.
Analysts say ODM might pull back to Luo areas like Nyanza. Those remain strongholds. But national reach could suffer. One expert said the party faces a leadership test. Who carries Raila’s torch? Oburu pushes continuity. The children invoke emotion and legacy.
The rallies stayed peaceful. No clashes reported. But online talk heats up. Posts debate the coalition or opposition path. Some say unite for strength. Others fear selling out.
ODM plans more events. The ‘Linda Lindi’ tours continue in other counties. Family gatherings might grow too. 2027 looms far but shapes choices now. This moment tests ODM three months after loss. Raila’s shadow stays large. The party searches for direction. Voters watch who leads next.
Rallies like these build bases. Kakamega showed organisation. Kibera and Kamukunji drew passion. Both sides claim Raila’s spirit. Kenya’s politics shifts quickly. ODM’s choice affects alliances. For now, parallel paths show the rift. The coming months bring more talks. Unity or split? Time will tell.
