The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has reiterated that it has not taken sides on whether the current administration should serve one or two terms, saying the party’s internal consultations are still ongoing.
Speaking during a radio interview on Thursday, April 16, 2026, ODM acting Secretary General Catherine Omanyo said the party remains guided by earlier consultations within its leadership and has not issued any directive compelling members to align with either political camp.
“There is no one-term or two-term. If we remember before Baba , the last supper we had with Baba, he advised us that although we are supporting the government, we are not to say ‘wantam’ or ‘tutam’ yet until negotiations. He said that we will support the government until 2027 and then see the way forward,” Omanyo said.
The lawmaker recalled how the late Raila Odinga urged party members to avoid taking premature political positions until discussions with the government side were concluded.
She added that the party had agreed to back government programmes until 2027, after which it would reassess its political direction.
She also cautioned the emerging Linda Mwananchi and Linda Ground factions within the party against using divisive slogans, saying such rhetoric undermines ODM’s commitment to unity and structured dialogue.
“Either way, Linda Mwananchi or Linda Ground, if anyone says ‘Wantam’, they are wrong; if anybody says ‘Tutam’, they are wrong,” Omanyo said.
“Even our party leader Dr Oburu recently reminded all of us that there is no one term or two terms. So no team should look so correct by saying one term and the other.”
Omanyo cited remarks by ODM leader Dr Oburu Odinga, who recently urged members to avoid taking formal positions on the one-term or two-term question.
She said ODM party’s focus is on maintaining national stability and preparing for a comprehensive review of its political strategy after 2027.
