ODM vows to remain in broad-based gov't, to uphold unity

Speaking after a party Central Management Committee meeting, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna noted that the party will uphold the late Raila Odinga's call for a unified nation and honour his commitment to partner with the government.

"We reiterate the commitment of the Party to the broad-based government until 2027, a relationship guided by the ten-point agenda entered into for the sake of peace and stability of the Country," noted Sifuna.

He further dismissed reports that the party is battling divisions, asserting that unity within the party is a top priority and it will remain steadfast in playing its role of fighting for the people's demands.

"ODM is not just a political party; it is a covenant. A covenant that we, the

living, must now renew. Let us resist the temptation to scatter in despair, or to fight over his political inheritance as leaders often do when giants fall," he noted.

"We commit here in unison, as we did during the funeral, that we will not be

responsible for any breakup in the party, or any unnecessary political turbulence that runs counter to Jakom’s dream."

Sifuna added that the CMC also resolved to hold memorial services in different parts of the country as they mourn the late ODM leader Mr. Odinga.

Memorial venues will be in Magarini, Kilifi County on 2nd and 3rd November and will proceed to Homabay and Migori on 5th and 6th.

He maintained that the scheduled 20th party anniversary celebrations will still proceed from the 14th to 16th "accompanied by activities aimed at cementing the unity and solidarity within the party". 

This comes after ODM leaders cautioned against the scramble for the Luo community’s political kingship following the demise of Mr. Odinga.

The ODM delegates, who on converged at the late Odinga’s home in Bondo Friday, stated that there is no vacuum to be filled.

ODM chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga said that the Luo community remains united and does not require a hurried succession process.

She told leaders to avoid divisive politics, warning that premature jostling for the “Luo kingpin” role could fracture the longstanding unity of the community.