Chaos Erupts at Kisumu Unity Forum as MP Millie Odhiambo Defends Winnie Odinga
A community dialogue aimed at fostering unity in the Lake Region turned tumultuous on Saturday, January 24, 2026, when Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo passionately confronted fellow Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders over alleged disrespect toward Winnie Odinga, daughter of the late party founder Raila Odinga.
The event, dubbed "Promoting Unity Through Conversation" and held in Kisumu, was intended to bring together community members, leaders, and stakeholders to address social, economic, and political issues affecting the Luo community. However, tensions boiled over during Odhiambo's address, leading to heckling, boos, and reported chaos among attendees.
In a fiery speech captured on video and widely shared on social media, Odhiambo stood firm against interruptions, declaring, "You intimidate me? I don't care! I will respect Winnie!" She accused some ODM figures of undermining the Odinga family legacy, emphasizing the need for respect toward Winnie, as well as Ida Odinga and Oburu Odinga, Raila's brother.
The confrontation highlighted deep rifts within the party, exacerbated by ongoing succession debates following Raila Odinga's passing.
Eyewitness accounts and footage from the scene showed Odhiambo gesturing emphatically at the podium, with the crowd reacting vocally. Some delegates reportedly stormed the stage or engaged in verbal clashes, turning the unity-focused forum into a display of division.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who also spoke at the gathering, later addressed the incident, urging calm and emphasizing party cohesion, though her remarks were met with mixed reactions.
The outburst comes amid growing internal conflicts in ODM, with factions clashing over leadership roles. Critics within the party have accused certain members of sidelining Winnie Odinga in favor of other contenders, while supporters like Odhiambo argue that the Odinga family's contributions to Kenyan politics demand unwavering respect.
Political analysts suggest this incident could signal an "explosion point" in the party's power struggles, potentially affecting its unity ahead of future elections.
No injuries were reported from the chaos, and the event continued after organizers restored order. ODM officials have yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but social media reactions have been swift, with some praising Odhiambo's boldness and others criticizing the disruption.
This episode underscores the challenges facing ODM in maintaining solidarity in a post-Raila era, as the party navigates generational shifts and regional dynamics. Further developments are expected as key figures respond to the fallout.
