A fierce political battle is unfolding in Kenya’s opposition ranks, with tensions between two key leaders — Senator Oburu Oginga and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna — spreading from Siaya County to the doorstep of a major rally in Kakamega.
This conflict stems from deep disagreements within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) over leadership, direction and alliances as the country heads toward the 2027 general elections.
Oburu, who commands influence in Siaya and was endorsed as party leader, represents one wing of ODM focused on unity and established strategy.
Meanwhile, Sifuna leads a grassroots mobilization called “Linda Mwananchi” that aims to energize voters and challenge the current party hierarchy.
In recent days, Siaya has become a political flashpoint. Youth groups in the county openly backed moves to remove Sifuna as ODM Secretary General, accusing him of actions that could weaken the party from within. They claim his rallies are harming ODM’s traditions and unity.
With tensions high, attention has now turned to Kakamega, where Sifuna’s team plans a large rally at Amalemba Grounds on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
This event is seen as a key test of his influence in Western Kenya and a chance to show that his vision resonates with ordinary people.
However, not everyone welcomes the rally. Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa and Deputy Governor Ayub Savula publicly warned that they would not allow the event to proceed, claiming it could threaten peace and stability in the county.
They urged locals to stay away and called on security agencies to be vigilant.
Amid these warnings, supporters of Sifuna have fired back. Some Kakamega residents threatened to occupy the homes of local Members of Parliament if the rally is disrupted, insisting that Sifuna and his team have every right to hold meetings and speak to the people.
The run‑up to the rally has also seen disturbing incidents. A campaign trailer headed to Kakamega was stoned in Kisumu, injuring no one but adding to fears of politically motivated attacks.
Sifuna claimed the truck was targeted to intimidate his group, but his team carried on despite the disruption.
This showdown between Oburu’s camp and Sifuna’s supporters highlights growing divisions within ODM and opposition politics in Kenya.
What started as an internal party disagreement has become a dramatic public confrontation, with both sides ready to defend their vision for the future.
As the Kakamega rally date nears, all eyes are on how this clash will shape political alliances and momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.
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