Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang has disclosed that the late Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga had intended to contest for the presidency in the 2027 General Elections, a revelation that has reignited debate within the party over its future direction.
Speaking during a radio interview on Sunday, February 8, 2026, Kajwang said Raila had been firm about ODM’s path to power and had no plans of stepping aside after the 2022 elections. “Raila was very clear in his mind that in 2027, we were going to take over power by walking with like-minded friends and formations. At no time did he tell us that it is going to be a two-term,” Kajwang stated.
He added that the former Prime Minister had expressed frustration with what he termed as “the one-term brigade,” accusing some within the party of tribal politics and disloyalty.
Kajwang’s remarks come amid growing divisions within ODM following Raila’s death, as the party grapples with leadership realignments and shifting alliances.
The once-united opposition movement is now split between factions supporting President William Ruto’s outreach efforts and those rallying behind ODM leader Oburu Oginga’s broad-based coalition initiative.
Party Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has also emerged as a key player in the unfolding power struggle, quietly consolidating ODM’s influence in its traditional strongholds.
Sifuna has vowed to uphold Raila’s legacy through the Linda Mwananchi movement, positioning ODM as a people-centered force ahead of the 2027 elections.
The internal wrangles have been further fueled by Oburu Oginga’s recent declaration that ODM is not negotiating for the Deputy President position in any pre-election deal. His remarks have sparked speculation that the party may be losing its bargaining power and operating under external influence.
As ODM navigates the post-Raila era, Kajwang’s revelation underscores the uncertainty surrounding the party’s leadership and strategy.
With the 2027 elections fast approaching, ODM’s ability to unite under a common vision remains in question, even as Raila’s political legacy continues to shape Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
