As Kenyans bid a final farewell to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during his state funeral on Sunday, October 19, divisions emerged among top Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders over the interpretation of Raila’s final political instructions.
While some senior party figures claimed that Raila had directed ODM to cooperate with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration, others insisted on preserving the independence and legacy of the movement he built over decades.
Wanga: Raila Directed ODM to Work With Ruto
Homabay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga told mourners that Raila’s last wish was for ODM to embrace unity and stability by working with the current administration.
“The last instruction he (Raila Odinga) left us with was clear — he made a firm decision to work with you (President Ruto) for the stability and unity of the nation through a broad-based government. As a party, that is where we will stand,” Wanga declared.
Her remarks were welcomed by some leaders who view cooperation with Ruto as a pragmatic step toward national reconciliation and inclusion.
Sifuna Pushes Back: ‘ODM Must Remain Independent’
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, however, struck a contrasting tone, emphasizing the need to maintain the party’s independence and cohesion.
“Raila himself said the ODM party will prepare for the 2027 general elections. To those spreading other narratives, he asked, ‘Who has told you that?’” Sifuna stated.
“This is not the time to push selfish agendas. ODM is a party for everyone, for the whole country.”
He vowed to protect the unity of ODM, calling it one of Raila’s greatest legacies, and warned against attempts to weaken the movement from within.
“I will not be part of any efforts to undermine Raila Odinga’s party. I will do everything possible to keep ODM united even in the face of open provocation,” Sifuna added.
Arati, Osotsi: ODM’s Struggle Continues
Kisii Governor Simba Arati reassured supporters that ODM remains strong despite the passing of its founder, saying the party’s mission is far from over.
“Even though Baba is gone, his vision continues to guide us. The struggle has just begun, and ODM will not die. We must face the 2027 election as a united party,” Arati said.
Vihiga Senator and ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi echoed Arati’s sentiments, stressing that Raila left behind a capable team to carry forward his ideals.
“Many think ODM is gone with Baba’s passing, but he left us a strong and brave team. We will mourn, reorganize, and continue to build on his vision,” Osotsi said.
Broad-Based Camp Gains Support
Other ODM heavyweights, including Treasury CS John Mbadi and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, backed Wanga’s interpretation, arguing that Raila wanted his community and party to be part of the national government.
“Raila showed us the direction — he wanted our people in government. We will be part of the broad-based government,” Mbadi said.
Nassir, meanwhile, outlined a bold vision for ODM’s 2027 path:
“In 2027, ODM will not be in opposition. By September, we will either be in government or be the government,” he said.
Suna East MP Junet Mohamed reinforced this stance, claiming Raila had personally urged the party to stay in the broad-based administration.
“Another thing Raila told us: we must remain in the broad-based government,” Junet stated.
Joho Issues Warning Against Division
Mining CS and ODM Deputy Party Leader Hassan Joho cautioned against internal sabotage, warning that anyone seeking to divide the party under the guise of unity would be dealt with firmly.
“ODM is here to stay. Anyone trying to weaken this party in the name of unity will face consequences,” Joho declared.
The funeral of Raila Odinga, a towering figure in Kenya’s political history, has not only marked the end of an era but also exposed differing interpretations of his final political vision. As ODM grapples with questions of succession and strategy, the debate over whether to align with Ruto’s government or maintain independence could define the party’s path toward the 2027 general election.
