Oburu Moves To Protect ODM Raila’s Style After Reported Divisions

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Oburu Odinga Employs Raila’s Playbook to Quell ODM Internal Turmoil

NAIROBI, May 11, 2026 — In a move reminiscent of his late brother’s legendary political tact, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party Leader Dr. Oburu Odinga has stepped in to halt escalating divisions within the party’s ranks.

For weeks, public spats between high-ranking officials threatened to derail the party’s stability. However, following the “Raila style” of behind-the-scenes diplomacy, Dr. Oburu convened a high-stakes, closed-door consultative meeting on Monday to broker peace between warring factions in Western Kenya.

Mediating the Kakamega Rivalry

The primary focus of the intervention was the long-standing “beef” between Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya and Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa.

The friction had intensified due to local power struggles and the 2027 ambitions of Kakamega Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda, who was also present at the meeting.

A Unified Front for 2027

Flanked by Deputy Party Leader and Kisii Governor Simba Arati, Dr. Oburu managed to secure a pledge of unity. According to an official statement from the Kakamega County leadership, the leaders agreed to prioritize party strength over personal differences.

This unity is seen as vital as ODM prepares for complex negotiations with “like-minded parties,” including the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Governor Barasa welcomed the truce, noting:

Unity of Purpose: Essential for advancing the region’s development.
Strategic Growth: Strengthening the ODM footprint across the Western region.
Political Stability: Ensuring a cohesive front ahead of upcoming electoral engagements.
By successfully bringing these heavyweights to the table, Dr. Oburu has signaled that while the party’s founding patriarch is gone, the tactical DNA of ODM—rooted in consultation and strategic compromise—remains very much alive.