Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi has openly accused senior ODM figures—including Oburu Odinga, Junet Mohamed, and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga—of sidelining Mama Ida Odinga, a respected figure within the party and the wife of ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Osotsi’s remarks have injected a new layer of controversy into what has increasingly been described as a simmering internal war.
He argues that the ongoing public engagements and parallel mobilization activities by some party bigwigs undermine party cohesion and disregard the moral authority and unifying role traditionally played by Mama Ida within ODM ranks.
According to Osotsi, ODM’s strength has historically rested on discipline, structured consultations, and respect for party elders and institutions.
He warned that unchecked public posturing by influential leaders risks portraying the party as divided, eroding public confidence at a time when ODM is expected to offer firm and coherent leadership nationally.
The deputy party leader has called for an immediate halt to ongoing public engagements that are not sanctioned by official party organs.
In his view, internal disagreements should be addressed through established party mechanisms rather than aired in public forums, which only fuel speculation of an implosion within the country’s largest opposition party.
His accusations come amid heightened political activity within ODM, with various leaders positioning themselves for influence as the party recalibrates following recent national political realignments.
While none of the leaders named has issued a direct rebuttal, allies of Oburu Odinga, Junet Mohamed, and Gladys Wanga have previously maintained that their engagements are aimed at strengthening the party and reconnecting with grassroots supporters.
Mama Ida Odinga, though rarely drawn into overt political confrontations, has long been regarded as a stabilizing force within ODM.
Her perceived marginalization, as alleged by Osotsi, has unsettled sections of the party faithful who view her as a symbol of unity and sacrifice within the ODM movement.
