Cracks Emerge in ODM as Alai Clashes with Oburu Odinga over Deputy President Deal
ODM is showing signs of internal divisions again after Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai publicly disagreed with acting party leader Oburu Odinga on power-sharing arrangements ahead of 2027 elections.
Speaking on TV on Sunday, November 2, 2025, Oburu Odinga, Siaya Senator, said ODM could support President William Ruto’s re-election if given the Deputy President slot in the next government.
“I want my people of ODM to strengthen the party,” Oburu said. “If we start talking about which position we will occupy now, we will end up with nothing. Nobody will respect you if you are weak.”
But Alai sharply disagreed, saying limiting ODM’s ambitions to the Deputy President could erode the party’s overall political influence.
“Not a wise strategy,” Alai wrote on X. “You can be given the Deputy President and then denied everything else. It makes you look desperate for power, not leadership.”
Nairobi MCA also took a swipe at ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, accusing him of misadvising the party leadership and giving opponents political ammunition ahead of November 27 Magarini by-election.
“Sifuna was giving the enemies of ODM a cue to campaign against the party,” Alai said. “Opponents in Magarini are using his words to strengthen their campaign.”
The divisions show growing unease within ODM as Raila Odinga’s involvement in local politics reduces. As the party prepares for 2027 elections, senior officials want to redefine ODM’s role in national politics while younger figures want a stronger, more independent party.
With factions emerging and criticism directed at top officials, the party is under pressure to sort out its leadership differences or risk deeper fragmentation come 2026.
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Cracks Emerge in ODM as Alai Clashes with Oburu Odinga over Deputy President Deal