Oparanya Revolts Against ODM Power Bloc, Warns Western Could ‘Walk Away’ Amid Deepening Party Rift
Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has issued a stark warning to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership, threatening a potential political fallout in Western Kenya amid escalating tensions within the party.
Speaking during a public address in Lugari, Kakamega County, on Friday, April 24, the former Kakamega governor accused a faction within ODM of sidelining leaders from the Western region, cautioning that continued marginalisation could force a dramatic political shift ahead of the 2027 General Election.
His remarks appeared to target the so-called “Linda Ground” faction associated with Oburu Odinga, which has increasingly come under scrutiny over its influence in the party’s current direction.
“I want to tell those leaders of ODM, this time, do not take us for granted,” Oparanya declared. “Raila respected us. Now, those leading ODM after Raila’s death should also respect us. If they do not respect us, we will quit.”
The CS, who previously served as ODM’s deputy party leader, painted a picture of growing disillusionment among Western Kenya politicians, arguing that the region—which has long been considered a key ODM stronghold—has been pushed to the periphery of decision-making structures.
He contrasted the current leadership approach with that of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, under whom he said regional leaders enjoyed recognition and influence.
According to Oparanya, the party’s present leadership is increasingly preoccupied with securing positions within President William Ruto’s administration rather than addressing grassroots concerns.
“We were very close, and we were even leaders in those parties. Yet now they are just continuing with their activities. They are now just demanding power,” he said.
“They have forgotten the people of Western. We also want power. They should not think that they are the only ones who want power.”
The outspoken CS warned that failure to address the grievances could trigger a major political realignment in the Western region, potentially weakening ODM’s grip in the area as the country edges closer to the 2027 polls.
Oparanya’s remarks come against the backdrop of widening cracks within ODM, which have led to the emergence of rival factions competing for influence.
Among them is the “Linda Mwananchi” movement led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, which has ramped up grassroots mobilisation efforts in traditional ODM bastions.
The faction is expected to launch a series of rallies beginning in Vihiga on Saturday, April 25, before culminating in a major gathering in Kisumu on Sunday, April 26—moves widely seen as a show of strength amid the internal wrangles.
The tensions also coincide with ongoing discussions between ODM and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) over a possible broad-based political arrangement ahead of the next general election—a development that has further exposed divisions within the opposition party.
With internal dissent now spilling into the public, Oparanya’s warning signals a potentially decisive moment for ODM as it grapples with unity, influence, and its political future.
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