On January 18, 2026, Kenya’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) experienced significant internal tensions, revealing contrasting leadership styles and potential rifts ahead of the 2027 General Election. Two major events on the same day highlighted the party’s struggle to define its post-Raila Odinga era.

In Kakamega County, ODM leader Oburu Oginga, along with senior party officials, convened a consultative meeting at the Kakamega Golf Hotel. This gathering, the first in the county after Raila Odinga’s tenure, quickly surfaced internal disagreements. Members voiced concerns over Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, urging him to halt actions viewed as divisive within the party. The discussions also hinted at possible talks with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), signaling ongoing debate over the party’s future alliances and strategic direction.

Simultaneously, in Nairobi, EALA MP Winnie Odinga drew an impressive crowd at Kibera’s Kamukunji Grounds, showcasing public support reminiscent of her late father, Raila Odinga. The turnout starkly contrasted a recent, smaller gathering organized by Oburu Odinga at the same venue, highlighting differences in grassroots engagement and popular appeal among party leaders.

During her address, Winnie Odinga delivered a pointed warning to ODM leadership, urging against unilateral decision-making. She emphasized the importance of democratic consultation and called for the convening of a National Delegates Conference (NDC) before determining the party’s course. Her message underscored the need for collective decision-making, grassroots empowerment, and broader consensus on critical party matters.

These events on January 18 vividly illustrate a party navigating leadership succession, identity, and strategic direction, marked by both public rallies and private consultative meetings that reveal underlying tensions within Kenya’s ODM.