The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has called an urgent Central Committee meeting set for Monday amid internal anxiety over possible leadership changes and uncertainty about the party’s future direction.
Multiple sources within ODM told reporters that the meeting will discuss what insiders describe as a “comprehensive restructuring,” which could see several long-serving officials dropped or reassigned.
The discussion is also expected to clarify the party’s position following growing speculation that President William Ruto will soon announce a Cabinet reshuffle that may affect ODM’s participation in the broad-based government.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, who serves as ODM deputy party leader, confirmed the meeting and said it will be chaired by interim leader Oburu Odinga.
He added that the forum will focus on internal cohesion and political strategy after the death of Raila Odinga, the party’s founder and long-time leader.
ODM Party Deputy Deputy Leader Abdulswamad Nasir. Photo: ODM Party Source: X
“We will meet to take stock and forge a united way forward,” Nassir said Thursday. “There are many voices speaking for ODM, but we must now speak with one voice about our future and our principles.”
Party insiders say nerves are especially high around the office of Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, who is accused by some members of sending mixed signals about ODM’s place in the government.
Sifuna’s recent public remarks appearing to endorse closer cooperation with President Ruto have reportedly unsettled senior officials who want the party to reassert itself as a watchdog rather than a coalition partner.
“Some members feel Sifuna’s tone is confusing the grassroots,” said one committee source who requested anonymity. “He might be asked to clarify his position, and that could determine his future in the party.”
ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga is also expected to present a report on the party’s grassroots mobilisation and the review of its 10-point agenda signed with the United Democratic Alliance earlier this year.
Analysts say the meeting will be critical in shaping ODM’s next phase as it grapples with leadership transitions, internal mistrust, and growing public pressure to redefine its identity in Kenya’s post-Raila era.