On January 18, 2026, Kenya's Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party witnessed significant internal rifts and divergent leadership approaches, signaling potential shifts in its political trajectory. Two distinct events unfolded on this day, each underscoring the complexities within the party in the post-Raila Odinga era and ahead of the crucial 2027 General Election.

In Kakamega County, ODM leader Oburu Oginga, alongside various party officials, convened a consultative meeting at the Kakamega Golf Hotel. This gathering, notably the first post-Raila Odinga ODM meeting in the county, quickly exposed deep-seated internal party wrangles. During the discussions, several members voiced strong concerns, specifically urging Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya to cease actions perceived as divisive within the party. This plea came amidst a broader context of potential talks with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), indicating that the party's future alliances and strategic direction were already a point of contention and internal debate.

Simultaneously, in Nairobi, EALA MP Winnie Odinga galvanized a substantial rally at Kibera's Kamukunji Grounds. The impressive turnout at this event was particularly noteworthy, drawing comparisons to the large crowds historically mobilized by her late father, Raila Odinga. This significant show of support for Winnie Odinga stood in stark contrast to a recent, more modest gathering held by party leader Oburu Odinga at the very same venue, subtly highlighting differing levels of public engagement and support among party figures.

Winnie Odinga utilized the platform of the rally to deliver a clear and direct message to the ODM leadership. She cautioned vehemently against any unilateral decisions concerning the party's future direction, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 General Election. Emphasizing the principles of democratic consultation, she stressed the imperative for party leaders to engage members through a National Delegates Conference (NDC) before charting the party's course. Her address underscored a call for collective decision-making and a rejection of top-down mandates, reflecting a desire to empower the grassroots and ensure broader consensus on critical party matters. These concurrent events on January 18, 2026, thus painted a vivid picture of a party grappling with its identity, leadership succession, and strategic future, marked by both public rallies and private consultative meetings revealing underlying tensions.