Winnie Odinga Fires Back at ODM Critics, Affirms Party's 2027 Presidential Ambitions
In a fiery defense of her late father's legacy, East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member Winnie Odinga has dismissed claims that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will sit out the 2027 presidential race, quoting Raila Odinga to challenge secretive dealings within the party.
Speaking on citizen TV, Winnie recounted a pointed question from Raila: "Who said ODM will not have a candidate in 2027? So those claiming Raila told them things in secret, who exactly told them that? Raila said everything publicly, to all of us."
This statement, highlighted in a widely shared post by Kenyans.co.ke, underscores ongoing tensions in ODM following Raila Odinga's death, as the party grapples with leadership transitions and internal power struggles
Winnie's remarks come amid accusations of intimidation and coercion within ODM ranks. She has previously alleged that some leaders are forcing members to sign loyalty pledges tied to rewards or sanctions, sidelining dissenters and flouting the party's constitution.
Specifically, she questioned the installation of her uncle, Dr. Oburu Oginga, as interim leader, arguing it bypassed proper procedures and excluded broader membership input.
The ODM, with an estimated 8 million members, has historically fielded Raila as its presidential candidate in multiple elections, making the current uncertainty a stark departure from tradition Winnie emphasized that Raila never hinted at leaving the party without a successor or merging it fully into government coalitions, such as the recent pact with President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
"ODM must field a presidential candidate in 2027," she asserted in earlier statements, rejecting any notion that the party lacks viable options.
