The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has convened a three-day retreat in Mombasa beginning Sunday, bringing together members of its National Executive Committee, parliamentary group and elected governors at a time when the party is facing internal pressure and weighing possible engagement talks with United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The retreat forms part of ODM’s broader activation drive aimed at reinforcing party structures and deepening its grassroots presence.
According to sources familiar with the plans, the meeting will review strategy, enhance mobilisation efforts across the country and address issues raised during recent youth engagement forums held in various counties.
The gathering comes amid rising unease within sections of the party over its current direction. Leaders are expected to deliberate on how to manage emerging concerns while maintaining unity within the outfit.
Discussions are also likely to touch on the anticipated talks with UDA, as ODM weighs its next political move in an evolving landscape shaped by President William Ruto’s administration.
At the same time, the party has been dealing with open challenges from the rival Linda Mwananchi faction, whose leaders have intensified pressure on ODM’s leadership while staking claim to key positions.
James Orengo, who is linked to the faction, has declared himself ODM party leader, arguing that the election of Oburu Odinga was irregular.
However, ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga dismissed the claims, maintaining that party structures had duly endorsed Oburu during a Special Delegates Conference.
“ODM has structures and recently, through the Special Delegates Conference, delegates endorsed Oburu as party leader. The rest is just noise,” Wanga said.
Meanwhile, Millie Odhiambo cautioned against alienating members, warning that mishandling internal disagreements could turn dissenting voices into symbols of resistance.
“Our mistreatment of Sifuna is what has made Sifuna a hero. So let us be careful the way we are dealing with our issues,” she said, referring to ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.
