Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has indicated that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will formally part ways with several of its senior leaders during the party’s upcoming National Delegates Conference (NDC), in remarks that underscore growing internal tensions.
According to Kaluma, the move will target Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi.
“On March 27, 2026, we, the ODM party, will officially release Orengo, Babu, Sifuna and Osotsi to Gachagua,” Kaluma said in a statement that appeared to question the leaders’ allegiance to the party.
He further alleged that the four had themselves with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua even before the death of ODM Leader Raila Odinga.
The remarks come at a time of escalating divisions within ODM, with rival factions increasingly taking divergent political positions while remaining under the party’s umbrella.
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The March 27, 2026 NDC is expected to serve as a critical decision-making forum where delegates will deliberate on the party’s leadership structure and broader political direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.
A section of leaders, including Orengo, Owino and Sifuna, have recently been associated with the “Linda Mwananchi” narrative, which opposes the broad-based government arrangement.
In contrast, leaders allied to Kaluma have backed closer cooperation within the framework, often referred to as the “Linda Ground” camp.
Despite the visible rift, figures from both sides have publicly maintained their commitment to ODM, even as disagreements over strategy and political alliances continue to play out in the open.
Meanwhile, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has in recent weeks called for the NDC, describing it as the party’s highest decision-making organ. He has also signaled interest in a future leadership role within the party, popularising the phrase “baada ya Babu ni Babu” following Odinga’s death.
ODM Leader and Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga confirmed that the March 27 meeting will also provide a platform for the party to outline its political path, including possible negotiations with like-minded formations.
He said that discussions could include engagement with partners in the broad-based government, among them the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
