Members of the party’s youth wing have publicly come out to defend Senator Oburu Oginga, while calling for the removal of ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino from influential positions within the party.
The youth leaders say their stand is meant to protect party unity and stability.
According to the ODM youth wing, Oburu Oginga has shown leadership, experience, and commitment to the party during a challenging period. They describe him as a loyal party member who understands ODM’s history and values.
The youth leaders argue that Oburu should be given full support to guide the party forward rather than being undermined by internal disputes and public disagreements.
The youth wing accuses Edwin Sifuna of repeatedly acting in ways that divide the party. They claim that his public statements and actions have caused confusion among party supporters and weakened internal unity.
Some youth leaders say Sifuna has failed to respect party structures and decision-making processes, leading to tension within ODM ranks.
There have also been complaints about Sifuna’s stance on national political matters, especially ODM’s relationship with the ruling government. While some members support cooperation with the government through a broad-based approach, others believe ODM should remain firmly in opposition.
This difference in opinion has increased disagreements within the party, with Sifuna often taking a strong and public position that some members see as controversial.
Earlier attempts were made to remove Sifuna from his role as Secretary General through internal party processes.
Although these efforts were later withdrawn after consultations, dissatisfaction among some party members, especially within the youth wing, has remained. They argue that withdrawing the petition did not address the underlying issues affecting party unity.
At the same time, ODM youth leaders have also criticised Babu Owino. They accuse him of pushing personal ambitions ahead of party interests. According to the youth wing, Babu’s calls for leadership changes and public statements have increased internal tension.
They say leadership positions within ODM should be filled through established party procedures, not through public pressure or personal declarations.
Babu Owino, however, has defended his position by saying ODM needs fresh leadership and new energy.
He argues that the party must adapt to changing political realities and reconnect with young voters. His supporters believe his bold approach reflects the views of many young people within the party, even though others see it as disruptive.
The disagreements between Oburu’s supporters and critics of Sifuna and Babu highlight deeper challenges facing ODM.
These include questions about leadership, party discipline, alliances, and the party’s future role in national politics. While some members want strong cooperation and dialogue, others want strict opposition politics.
Oburu Oginga has responded by urging calm and unity within ODM. He has called on party members to resolve disagreements through dialogue and internal mechanisms rather than public confrontations. Oburu has emphasized that debate is normal in a democratic party but should not weaken the organization.
The youth wing insists that unity is essential as ODM prepares for future political contests. They warn that continued infighting could damage the party’s image and reduce public confidence.
According to them, protecting party structures and respecting leadership decisions is key to ODM’s success.
As debates continue, many ODM supporters are watching closely to see how the party manages its internal differences. The way ODM handles these challenges may shape its future strength, unity, and influence in Kenyan politics.
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