The Orange Democratic Party (ODM) continues to grapple with deepening internal divisions as Secretary General Edwin Sifuna finally broke his silence after skipping a crucial party meeting held in Kakamega County.
The meeting, convened by a faction allied to ODM’s current party leadership, was seen as a key step toward shaping the party’s post–Raila Odinga future.
The rift within ODM is increasingly taking shape along two broad lines. One faction, largely aligned with President William Ruto’s broad-based government, is pushing for unity talks between ODM and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Their argument is anchored on political pragmatism and the desire to secure influence within government beyond the 2027 General Election.
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However, another camp led by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and EALA MP Winnie Odinga appears uncomfortable with this direction. They argue that ODM must retain its independence and ideological identity rather than merge its fortunes with the ruling party.
Sifuna’s remarks came shortly after Winnie Odinga addressed a massive crowd at Kamukunji Grounds, a rally that drew praise from party supporters and reignited grassroots excitement.
Reacting to the developments, Sifuna posted a brief but pointed message that has since sparked debate within political circles, stating: “Huwezi copy paste Baba.”
The statement, loosely translating to “You cannot copy-paste Baba,” was widely interpreted as a warning against attempts to replicate Raila Odinga’s legacy without genuine political substance.
As ODM navigates this turbulent period, all eyes remain on how the party will reconcile its competing visions ahead of 2027.
