Mbadi Bows to Oburu
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has made it clear that Dr. Oburu Oginga, the leader of the ODM party, is the only one with the constitutional power to steer the political direction of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). This comes as discussions heat up regarding the party’s relationship with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
During his remarks on Thursday, December 12, Mbadi acknowledged the noticeable rifts within ODM following the passing of the party’s former leader, the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga. He emphasized that such differences in opinion are not only normal but also a sign of a healthy democracy.
“In every democracy, divergent views are encouraged because it informs and enriches the decisions to be made finally,” Mbadi said.
The CS recognized that the current upheaval within ODM was unavoidable, especially considering the significant leadership changes that followed Raila Odinga’s passing.
“What has happened in ODM was expected. You cannot expect everything to remain the same when a towering leader like Raila Odinga vacates the scene. There must be instability,” Mbadi explained.
However, he expressed optimism that the party is finding its footing under new leadership.
“The saving grace is that it’s settling. What is important is what the top leadership says and the direction he gives after everyone has expressed themselves,” he added.
Mbadi pointed out that, based on both the Constitution and the traditions of the ODM, the party leader has the sole authority to negotiate political deals and guide the party’s direction.
“The Constitution, and even ODM tradition says that the party leader is the only person allowed to negotiate any arrangements, be it coalition, or give political direction to ODM. All the rest will say things and give their views but finally the party leader will give direction,” the CS stated.
“The party leader as it is Dr. Oburu Oginga. He will finally announce to the country that this is the direction we are taking after consulting with different party organs.”
Mbadi pointed out that even though different party members and leaders have shared a variety of views, the final call is up to Dr. Oburu.
“The party organs are speaking. Maybe the Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Deputy party leader had a divergent view. But I think everybody else is aligned on which direction we should go to,” he said.
The party has been facing some significant disagreements among its leaders since the late Raila Odinga’s passing, especially when it comes to ODM’s ties with President William Ruto’s government.
During the ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa last November, Siaya Governor James Orengo didn’t hold back, openly criticizing the current political setup. He made it clear that President Ruto actually needs ODM more than the party needs him.
“I dare say this, Ruto needs ODM; it’s not ODM that needs Ruto,” Orengo declared at the time, expressing support for statements made by Dr. Oburu and Winnie Odinga, daughter of the late party leader, who had cautioned against attempts to divide the party.
The Secretary General of the party, Edwin Sifuna, along with Deputy Party Leader Gladys Wanga, have been seen taking different stances on the direction of ODM, sparking speculation about the party’s position.
In November, Dr. Oburu Oginga openly expressed his desire to lead ODM into government for the 2027 elections, firmly dismissing any idea of the party taking on an opposition role.
He pledged to bolster the party’s strength and cautioned against any efforts to divide it, asserting that ODM would either compete on its own or seek strategic partnerships under favorable conditions.
“I’m not going to lead my party to the opposition. I’m going to lead my party to the government,” Oburu declared in November, outlining his vision for the party’s future trajectory.
Mbadi Bows to Oburu
