The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), the country’s leading opposition party, is at a crossroads as it seeks to bolster its position within the political landscape, just ahead of critical grassroots elections set for November 27, 2024. With new leadership under interim party leader Anyang’ Nyong’o and chairperson Gladys Wanga, ODM is launching an ambitious membership drive aimed at invigorating the party’s ranks, but emerging internal rivalries are threatening to derail its efforts.
At a delegates’ conference in Migori on Monday, the party’s new leadership outlined plans for revitalizing ODM through a comprehensive membership initiative. However, the mood behind the scenes is tense, as sibling rivalries continue to stir suspicion and competition for key party positions.
Rivalries Intensify in Coastal and Western Kenya
The ongoing political struggles are particularly pronounced in regions where ODM has long been dominant. In Mombasa, a bitter power struggle has unfolded between Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and County Woman Representative Zamzam Mohamed. The rivalry, which reached a boiling point after an alleged sexual assault incident involving a blogger allied to Mohamed, has cast a shadow over ODM’s planned grassroots elections.
While Nassir has denied any involvement in the assault, the incident has fueled growing dissatisfaction with his leadership, particularly within Mohamed’s camp. The governor, a senior ODM figure in the Coast region, faces increasing pressure to secure the unity of the party ahead of the elections. Alongside other Coast ODM leaders such as Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro and Tana River’s Godhana Dhadho, Nassir is working to maintain party unity and ensure smooth elections.
On Tuesday, the factions clashed publicly at a meeting in Kisauni constituency, leading to a tense standoff, with party supporters shouting at each other and threatening physical confrontation. Former ODM Deputy Party Leader, Hassan Joho, who has remained influential in the region, intervened, urging the leaders to resolve their differences for the greater good of the region’s development.
“In Mombasa, unity among leaders is crucial for the achievement of development goals,” Joho stated, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to address pressing issues such as the eviction of hundreds of residents from Bondeni.
Leadership Struggles in Kakamega
The internal strife is not limited to the Coast. In Kakamega County, ODM is grappling with growing tensions between the party’s Deputy Party Leader, Godfrey Osotsi, and local elected leaders. Several officials have criticized Osotsi’s leadership, accusing him of sowing division within the party’s Kakamega stronghold.
At the opening of the ODM office in Butere, led by Governor Fernandes Barasa and Members of Parliament Tindi Mwale and Nabii Nabwera, leaders questioned Osotsi’s approach to party unity. They accused him of misrepresenting the political dynamics in the region, particularly regarding relations between Governor Barasa and former Governor Wycliffe Oparanya.
“We, the elected leaders, are in the best position to know the local dynamics. For Osotsi to interfere without understanding the issues is a breach of respect,” said Mwale. Governor Barasa echoed these sentiments, urging Osotsi to focus on fostering unity rather than deepening divisions.
Preparations for Grassroots Elections Continue
Despite the mounting tensions, ODM insists it is fully prepared for the grassroots elections, which are expected to take place at polling stations nationwide on November 27. Mombasa ODM chairperson Mohammed Hamid Khamis (alias Dee) affirmed the party’s readiness, stating that the Mombasa branch is one of the most active in the country.
“The party is in good shape here in Mombasa. Our members are mobilizing and preparing for the elections. I’m personally ready to defend my seat,” said Khamis, who also clarified that the committee overseeing the elections had undergone training in Nairobi.
The National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC), led by Emily Awita, is overseeing the process, with party officials confident that the polls will proceed smoothly despite the challenges.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for ODM
As ODM approaches this crucial phase in its history, it faces the dual challenge of maintaining unity while empowering grassroots participation. The internal rivalries and accusations of mismanagement are a litmus test for the party’s future, particularly as it prepares for national elections in 2027. The ability of ODM’s leadership to navigate these internal divisions and present a united front will be key to its success moving forward.
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