Raila Odinga Skips ODM Celebrations in Kisii as Party Leaders from Gusii Show Discontent

BY ERIC ABUGA

ODM party leader Raila Odinga did not attend the celebrations at Gusii Stadium today, despite prior announcements that he would lead the event marking the party's 20 years of existence. 

Except for Nominated Woman MP Irene Nyakerario, all five elected ODM MPs from Kisii and Nyamira were absent from the meeting, as was Timothy Bosire, the party's National Treasurer. 

Kisii Governor Simba Arati, who serves as the Deputy Party Leader, hosted other governors: Abdulswammad Shariff Nassi (Mombasa), Godfrey Osotsi (Vihiga), Dr. Ochilo Ayacko (Migori), Party Chair Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay), and FCPA Ferdinand Baraza (Kakamega).

Members of Parliament from Rongo, Awendo, Uriri, Kapondo Kasipul, Kisumu West, Suna East, Homa Bay, and their Migori counterparts were present at the celebrations.

In recent months, the leadership within Gusii has demonstrated support for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i, who is expected to run for the presidency in the 2027 general by elections. 

The lack of attendance from the Gusii leaders at today’s meeting may indicate a broader movement to leave ODM, fueled by claims of marginalization and dissatisfaction with their treatment since the formation of the Ruto-Raila broad-based government.

For years, Raila has held significant influence over Kisii politics, with many leaders being elected through his ODM political machine. 
However, support for him seems to be waning in the region, as seasoned politicians are increasingly interested in establishing a political platform that caters specifically to the interests of the Gusii community. 

Leaders from the region have challenged both Raila and Ruto, citing unfulfilled promises, and are seeking to break longstanding political ties to pursue their own agenda. ODM leaders from Kisii have publicly accused Raila of discrimination against the region.

Party Deputy Leader and Mombasa Governor Shariff Nassi, who conveyed Raila's message, stated that they are unwilling to remain in opposition in the next elections. 

“There are two potential scenarios for the party in the next general elections; we either form the government or become part of the coalition that will form the next government,” he said.

National Assembly Party Leader Junet Mohamed expressed confidence in the party’s future, affirming their unwavering support for Raila and the coalition government. 

“We will never again be labeled an opposition party in this country’s political history. We will be part of the next government,” he declared.

Wanga emphasized that the gathering highlighted a collective commitment to build momentum for the 2027 general elections, following two decades of advocacy for social justice, human rights, and equitable development. 

Ayacko reiterated the party's desire for a peaceful electoral process, stating, “We do not wish for any form of bloodshed during elections.” 

He noted that many of the country’s top leaders have come through ODM, asserting that no other party can match their determination and resolve.

Barasa expressed gratitude to Raila and President William Ruto for establishing the broad-based government, adding, “The IEBC must ensure that we do not lose the credibility we have gained through this arrangement.”

Today’s meeting took place against the backdrop of a Jubilee Party National Delegates Convention (NDC) occurring in Nairobi, attended by former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Dr. Matiang’i, who has been actively seeking support for his presidential campaign across the country.