Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has warned that attempts by a faction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) linked to the Linda Mwananchi movement to form a separate political party could fracture the opposition and inadvertently strengthen President William Ruto’s re-election prospects.
Speaking during Citizen TV’s JKLive Show on Wednesday, Natembeya described the unfolding divisions within ODM as an internal party matter, emphasizing that leaders aligned with the Azimio coalition are closely monitoring developments.
ODM Split Into Two Factions
The governor, who distanced himself from both factions, said ODM currently appears split into two camps:
- One backing the broad-based government arrangement with President Ruto, led by interim party leader Oburu Oginga and the Linda Ground wing.
- Another opposing it, led by Edwin Sifuna and James Orengo, associated with the Linda Mwananchi wing.
“It looks like there are two sides of ODM, one supporting the current broad-based government led by Oburu, and the other faction led by Sifuna and Orengo, who are not for the broad-based arrangement,” Natembeya said.
According to the governor, the opposition faction opposing the arrangement largely echoes concerns raised when former ODM leader Raila Odinga joined the broad-based government.
Warning Against Fracturing the Opposition
Natembeya cautioned that transforming the Linda Mwananchi movement into a political party would weaken the opposition vote.
“Their views are basically the views of the opposition. If they branch off and form another wing, they are going to reduce our votes and inevitably help Ruto get another term. For me, I would greatly discourage that type of direction,” he said.
The governor emphasized the need for a united opposition to present a strong challenge against President Ruto in future elections.
Tensions Over ODM-Kenya Kwanza 10-Point Agenda
The remarks come amid rising tensions within ODM over the implementation of the 10-point agenda agreed between the party and the Kenya Kwanza administration.
On Wednesday, Sifuna dismissed a report on the agenda’s progress, describing a briefing at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) as a “charade.” He insisted the agreement had not been implemented as promised and argued that the oversight committee failed to release its final report by the March 7 deadline.
Sifuna further vowed that his faction would present what he called a “true report” outlining failures in implementing the agenda, signaling continued friction within the party.
Observers say the unfolding divisions within ODM could have serious implications for opposition unity ahead of the 2027 elections, as internal splits may inadvertently strengthen the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition.
