Embakasi East MP Babu Owino calls for an ODM National Delegates Conference as internal power struggles intensify following Raila Odinga’s death.
Internal power struggles within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have intensified after Embakasi East MP Babu Owino openly declared his intention to take over the party’s leadership.
The declaration has sparked renewed debate about ODM’s future following the death of its long-time leader Raila Odinga, with the party now sharply divided over leadership, direction, and its cooperation with the government.
Babu Owino Demands National Delegates Conference (NDC)
Speaking during an interview on NTV on Thursday, January 8, Owino called for the immediate convening of a National Delegates Conference (NDC), arguing that it is the only lawful avenue to reorganise ODM’s leadership.
According to the outspoken legislator, the transition that followed Raila Odinga’s death did not adhere to the party’s constitution, leaving ODM fragmented and weakened.
“We are calling for an NDC to be held as soon as possible. There was no clear and lawful process used to install the current leadership,” Owino stated.
He insisted that an NDC would not only correct leadership gaps but also help stabilise the party amid rising internal tensions that have persisted since October last year.
ODM Leaders Split Over Party Direction
Owino’s remarks came shortly after a high-level ODM meeting attended by senior party figures, including Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, and former Attorney-General Amos Wako.
The push for reforms has also received backing from Siaya Governor James Orengo, who has repeatedly argued that ODM must reclaim its position as a strong opposition party.
However, the calls have been met with resistance from a rival faction led by current party leader Oburu Odinga, which supports continued cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration.
ODM–Ruto Cooperation Fuels Internal Rift
Babu Owino belongs to a faction that strongly opposes ODM’s collaboration with the Kenya Kwanza government, arguing that it undermines the party’s core opposition identity.
On the other hand, leaders allied to Oburu Odinga including Suna East MP Junet Mohamed have defended the arrangement, saying it reflects Raila Odinga’s final political wishes.
Speaking at a public event in late December, Junet criticised politicians positioning themselves for the presidency too early, noting that ODM’s constitution does not allow unilateral leadership ambitions outside official party structures.
Babu Owino Eyes 2027 as ODM Succession Battle Looms
Looking ahead to the 2027 General Election, Owino maintained that ODM remains capable of producing a strong presidential candidate to challenge President Ruto.
“Those who think ODM cannot produce a presidential candidate are mistaken. Kenyans are suffering, and the party must stand firmly with them,” he said.
Meanwhile, Oburu Odinga has dismissed calls for leadership change, insisting he still has the strength to steer the party and protect the legacy built by his late brother.
“I am not shaken. I will firmly remain in the ODM party leader seat,” Oburu stated.
What This Means for Kenyan Politics
Political analysts say the growing rift within ODM could significantly shape Kenya’s opposition politics ahead of 2027. Whether through an NDC or internal negotiations, the battle for ODM’s future leadership now appears inevitable.
As pressure mounts, the party faces a defining moment: reform and reunite, or risk deepening divisions that could weaken its national influence.
