KISUMU, Kenya, Jan 10 – Members of Bunge La Wanainchi, Kisumu County chapter, on Saturday publicly reaffirmed their unwavering support for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and its party leader Oburu Oginga, calling for unity, discipline and respect for the party’s long-standing structures as the country heads toward the 2027 General Election.
Addressing the press in Kisumu, the group said the party remains strong at the grassroots and warned against internal divisions that could weaken its base.
They emphasized that ODM’s strength lies in the structures established by the late party founder Raila Odinga, which they said must be protected and upheld.
Chairman Christopher Onyayango said the members had convened the press briefing to make their position clear amid rising political tensions and speculation within the party.
He said Bunge La Wanainchi stood firmly behind Dr. Oburu Oginga and rejected any attempts to undermine the party from within.
“We want the structure that our father left to remain intact so that the party stays strong,” Onyango said.
“ODM is our home, and we do not want anyone to destroy what has been built over the years. Our party leader is Dr. Oburu Oginga, and we are fully behind him.”
Onyango added that ODM’s grassroots supporters remained loyal and committed, urging leaders to focus on strengthening the party rather than engaging in internal wrangles.
He said the group’s message was meant to assure supporters that ODM remains united and prepared for future political contests.
Organizing Secretary Michael Olweny said the party had a clear direction following Raila Odinga’s death, noting that leadership had naturally transitioned to Dr. Oburu Oginga.
He said members who felt uncomfortable within ODM were free to pursue other political paths without destabilizing the party.
“ODM is the working tool that Baba left us with, and we are not ready to abandon it,” Olweny said.
“If someone feels they cannot work within ODM, democracy allows them to leave, but they should not interfere with the party’s growth.”
Olweny further said ODM was already positioning itself strategically for the 2027 elections, adding that unnecessary noise and confrontations would only distract the party from its broader national agenda.
Women’s representative Betty Akinyi described ODM as a movement deeply rooted among ordinary citizens, particularly women and youth at the grassroots.
She said the party’s leagues and structures remained active and vibrant across the country.
“ODM is our party and our identity,” Akinyi said.
“The people on the ground are calling for unity, and they want us to remain together under the leadership of Dr. Oburu Oginga until 2027.”
The team urged elected ODM leaders, particularly in the Luo Nyanza region, to take responsibility in calming tensions and fostering dialogue.
They called on party officials to convene leaders and chart a common course that would strengthen cohesion.
“Dr. Oburu Oginga should not feel intimidated or threatened,” said Isaa Nabii, a member of Bunge.
“We are fully behind him, and we believe he has the capacity to steer ODM forward.”
The Bunge team urged ODM supporters across the country to remain steadfast, saying the party remained strong nationally and capable of sustaining its influence through unity and disciplined leadership.
