The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) today held a high-profile “Linda Ground” rally in Migori County, bringing together senior party leaders, elected representatives, and grassroots supporters in a show of unity and renewed commitment to the broad-based political arrangement.
The event was led by ODM Party Leader Oburu Odinga and Party Chairperson Gladys Wanga, alongside Interim Secretary General Catherine Omanyo. They were joined by Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko, Senators Ledama Ole Kina (Narok) and Eddy Okech (Migori), as well as Members of Parliament Peter Masara (Suna West), Junet Mohamed (Suna East), Walter Owino (Awendo), Paul Abuor (Rongo), Fatuma Mohamed (Migori Woman Representative), and Boyd Were (Kasipul), among other leaders.
Commitment to Broad-Based Governance
Addressing supporters, Junet Mohamed underscored the party’s resolve to remain within the broad-based arrangement, stating that ODM would not allow its supporters to be drawn back into street protests.
“Baba left us in the broad-based alliance. We will not let our people return to the streets. We have seen a lot as a people and we cannot normalize protests at the expense of development,” he said.
Governor Ochillo Ayacko described Migori as the bedrock of ODM politics and called for unity in consolidating power to drive development. He referenced the legacies of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Raila Odinga, noting their historical roles in shaping Kenya’s political landscape through strategic alliances.
“We can only consolidate power if we work closely and form a formidable alliance. We are keen on fostering development through unity and structured engagement,” Ayacko stated.
Leaders Root for Development and Stability
Awendo MP Walter Owino emphasized the need for political stability to unlock development at the constituency level.
“Our people want roads, water, health facilities and opportunities for the youth. These cannot be delivered from the streets. They can only be achieved when we are seated at the decision-making table. Supporting the broad-based arrangement is about securing development for Awendo and the entire region,” Owino said.
Suna West MP Peter Masara echoed the call for unity, warning against internal wrangles that could weaken the party’s bargaining power.
“We must protect the house that we have built over the years. ODM remains the vehicle through which our people’s aspirations can be realized. Division will only slow down progress. We stand firmly with the leadership in consolidating power for the benefit of our constituents,” Masara stated.
Oburu Odinga: ODM Must Remain in Government
In his address, Oburu Odinga reaffirmed ODM’s commitment to staying in government and negotiating for greater representation.
“We must galvanize our supporters, enlist as voters, and chart a clear way forward. Some people are already panicking, yet we are just about to begin negotiations. The upcoming National Delegates Council will give further direction,” he said.
Party Chairperson Gladys Wanga reiterated that ODM remains solid despite internal differences, stressing that only a handful of leaders were attempting to create discord within the party.
Interim Secretary General Catherine Omanyo emphasized the need to guard the party against internal sabotage while defending devolution and equitable development across counties.
Senator Ledama Ole Kina concluded by affirming that ODM would strategize as equal partners within the broad-based framework to ensure resources and services reach the people.
Looking Ahead
The Migori “Linda Ground” rally marked a renewed grassroots mobilization drive aimed at strengthening party unity and consolidating political influence. Leaders reiterated that structured negotiations, unity of purpose, and strategic alliances will be central to ODM’s roadmap moving forward.
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