Siaya Governor James Orengo has blamed the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)’s growing internal troubles following the death of its longtime leader, Raila Odinga, on the party’s decision to allow the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to interfere in its internal affairs.
Orengo argued that ODM’s leadership made a mistake by giving UDA and its leaders room to influence the party’s affairs, a move he believes has weakened the opposition party.
Speaking during a televised interview on Friday, October 16, 2026, the outspoken governor maintained that ODM should have protected its independence rather than allow external political forces to become involved in its internal decision-making.
“Space should not have been given to UDA and the leader of UDA to get embroiled in the issues of the party. I think that is what has destroyed the ODM party,” Orengo said.
His remarks come amid growing divisions within ODM as the party navigates its political future following Raila’s death and prepares for coalition negotiations ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Raila’s Sister Faults ODM Leadership
Orengo’s concerns were echoed by Pauline Odhiambo Oginga, Raila’s younger sister, who has also criticised the party’s leadership over its handling of the current political situation.
Pauline, who is eyeing the Nyali parliamentary seat, argued that ODM’s leaders were responsible for opening the door for UDA to establish a stronger presence in areas traditionally considered the party’s strongholds, particularly in the Nyanza region.
She expressed disappointment that ODM had reached a point where it was demanding political zoning in Luo Nyanza, especially in Homa Bay, areas that have historically been associated with the party.
According to Pauline, ODM’s demand for zoning reflects a significant shift in the party’s political fortunes, given that its traditional strongholds were previously considered difficult territory for rival parties to penetrate.
She also warned that President William Ruto should not be underestimated politically, arguing that allowing him limited political space could eventually give him a much greater foothold.
Pauline further observed that Ruto could now visit Luo Nyanza without necessarily requiring an ODM leader to accompany him or facilitate his entry into the region, underscoring what she sees as a change in the political dynamics of the area.
The remarks come as ODM pushes for zoning as one of its irreducible minimums in the upcoming coalition negotiations.
Wanga Says Raila’s Death Left ODM Scattered
Meanwhile, ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga has attributed the party’s internal challenges to the absence of Raila, whom she described as the central figure who held the party together.
Wanga likened the situation to a large tree falling and its branches scattering, saying the party was struggling to regain its footing following the loss of the leader who united its members.
She acknowledged that ODM would have to work through its challenges before returning to stability but maintained that the party remained on course.
Wanga also dismissed the rival faction associated with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, insisting that it did not pose a significant threat to ODM’s strength.
Orengo Questions ODM Rally Attendance
Orengo also raised concerns about how the party has been mobilising supporters for its political rallies.
The Siaya governor claimed that Raila did not rely on transporting people or paying them to attend ODM rallies, suggesting that the current mobilisation practices differ from those used during the late leader’s tenure.
His remarks add to the growing debate over ODM’s leadership, internal cohesion and political direction as the party seeks to maintain its influence following Raila’s death.
With coalition talks approaching and competition for political influence intensifying in its traditional strongholds, ODM faces the challenge of resolving its internal differences while preserving its support base ahead of the 2027 polls.
