Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi on Sunday took a direct swipe at Siaya Governor James Orengo during the ODM “Linda Ground” rally in Migori, urging him to support rather than undermine the party’s current leadership.
Addressing thousands of supporters at the event organized by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Mbadi accused sections of the party of fueling internal divisions at a critical political moment.
In an open backlash, the vocal CS called on Governor Orengo to play an advisory role to ODM Party Leader Oburu Odinga instead of aligning with factions that, he said, threaten party unity.
“Governor Orengo is a senior lawyer and an experienced leader in this party. We respect him. But instead of joining factions of young politicians that are out to derail unity, he should sit down and advise Oburu Odinga on sensitive matters. That is how we build, not by tearing down our own house,” Mbadi said.
He added: “This is not the time for ego or rebellion. It is time for strategy. Let us allow our party leader to negotiate and deliver for our people.”
Deepening Divisions in ODM
ODM has in recent months been embroiled in internal disagreements over its participation in the broad-based political framework.
One faction, associated with ousted Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and backed by Governor Orengo, has voiced reservations about the party’s cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
They argue that ODM risks losing its identity as a watchdog and reform-driven movement by appearing too aligned with government.
The opposing camp, led by Oburu Odinga and backed by several senior party officials, maintains that remaining within the broad-based arrangement is a strategic move to consolidate power, secure development resources, and strengthen ODM’s negotiating position ahead of 2027.
The standoff escalated following attempts by the party’s National Executive Council to remove Sifuna as Secretary General — a move later halted by the High Court — exposing the extent of the internal rift.
Governor Orengo’s camp has continued to push for a more assertive and independent party posture, framing their position as a defense of ODM’s historical opposition legacy.
However, critics within the party accuse them of emboldening dissent and weakening cohesion at a time when unity is crucial.
Questions Over Political Engagement by State Officials
Mbadi’s outspoken role in the wrangles has also sparked debate, with some observers questioning whether senior Cabinet officials should be deeply involved in partisan politics amid pressing economic and fiscal challenges facing the country.
Nonetheless, Mbadi defended his position, arguing that ODM’s unity directly impacts its ability to negotiate development for its strongholds.
“We cannot secure resources for our people if we are divided. Unity gives us strength at the negotiating table,” he said.
Call for Reconciliation
Even as sharp words were exchanged, Mbadi maintained that the door remains open for dialogue within ODM.
“We are one party. Differences can be discussed internally. Let us stop public fights and focus on what benefits our supporters,” he concluded.
The Migori rally highlighted the growing tension within ODM as both factions brace for key party meetings expected to shape its political direction in the coming months.
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