ODM Factions Hold Parallel Conventions Amid Deepening Internal Rift
Leaders and supporters from the Linda Mwananchi wing of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) successfully breached a police barricade set up outside Ufungamano House on Friday morning.
The security cordon was established to block access to the venue for their planned ‘People’s’ National Delegates Convention (NDC). Early arrivals reported that officers cited “orders from above” as the reason for attempting to stop the gathering from taking place.
Despite the heavy security presence, the group forced their way through with little resistance from law enforcement, allowing large numbers of delegates and supporters to enter the premises. Proceedings then began inside the hall, featuring addresses from prominent figures including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
The parallel meeting at Ufungamano House reflects the growing divisions within ODM, as the party grapples with competing claims over legitimacy and leadership direction. The Linda Mwananchi faction has positioned its event as a people-driven convention, challenging what they perceive as undemocratic processes within the party structures.
On the other side, the rival Linda Ground faction, led by ODM party leader Dr. Oburu Oginga and Chairperson Gladys Wanga, is convening its official Special Delegates Convention (SDC) at Jamhuri Grounds. This gathering aims to ratify key resolutions from the National Executive Council (NEC) and the National Governing Council, including matters related to party leadership, discipline, and strategic direction. The Linda Ground camp has dismissed the Ufungamano event as unofficial and illegitimate, insisting that the party constitution recognizes only one delegates’ assembly.
Senior officials from Oburu’s side maintain that their convention at Jamhuri Grounds represents the authentic party process. They argue it will help rejuvenate leadership and address internal differences in a structured manner. The simultaneous events highlight a clear supremacy battle within ODM, with both factions claiming to uphold the party’s best interests while operating on parallel tracks.
