• In a recent episode of the Talkchat Podcast, political analyst Dr. Michael Ndonye weighed in on the growing contradictions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)
  • Whether the party chooses continuity or reinvention may well determine not only its future relevance but also the shape of Kenya’s political landscape in the years to come.

In a recent discussion on the Talkchat Podcast, political analyst Dr. Michael Ndonye weighed in on the growing contradictions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), painting a picture of a party caught between loyalty to its long-time leader Raila Odinga and the ambitions of its younger members.

Dr. Ndonye noted that it came as no surprise when Siaya Governor James Orengo reaffirmed his loyalty to Raila. According to the analyst, Orengo’s declaration that he would follow Raila wherever he goes is rooted in a political journey that began in the 1980s.

Their shared history, he explained, makes Orengo’s stance both expected and symbolic of the unwavering loyalty Raila still commands among seasoned party members.

However, the situation grows more complex with Embakasi East Member of Parliament (MP) Babu Owino. Despite remaining in ODM, Babu has been at the forefront of championing the Kenya Moja Alliance, describing it as the only true political force.

Yet, in a recent interview, Babu maintained that he has not officially announced any departure from ODM. Dr. Ndonye argued that such double positioning weakens political clarity.

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A Screengrab Of Political Analyst, Dr. Michael Ndonye (Left) and Jasmine Mumba (Right, Host) During The Interview (Photo | Courtesy: Talkchat Podcast)

“Babu Owino needs to declare his stand,” he emphasized, urging the young legislator to make a definitive choice between the old order and the new.

The analyst went further, drawing a sharp metaphor for ODM’s future.

He alluded to the movie the Titanic, saying Raila Odinga, like the ship’s captain, appears ready to sink with the vessel rather than let go. In his view, ODM’s survival is inseparably tied to Raila, and once he exits the political stage, the party risks fading into history.

For Dr. Ndonye, the solution lies in transition. He argued that ODM’s younger generation of leaders, such as Babu Owino and Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, must recognize the shifting tides and begin carving out a fresh path.

Remaining tethered to an aging political structure, he warned, risks dragging them down with it.

As ODM grapples with this delicate balance between loyalty to Raila and the ambitions of youthful leaders, the party faces one of its most critical tests yet.

Whether it chooses continuity or reinvention may well determine not only its future relevance but also the shape of Kenya’s political landscape in the years to come.