A surprise appearance by Winnie Odinga at the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Special National Delegates Conference (NDC) has ignited intense debate within the party and across Kenya’s political landscape.
Her attendance and conciliatory message at the event, held at the ASK Jamhuri Grounds in Nairobi, are being interpreted as a significant shift from the rebel faction led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
Winnie, long associated with the Linda Mwananchi camp that has openly challenged the leadership of Oburu Oginga, took to the stage with a markedly different tone.
Calling for unity, inclusion, and what she described as a “new ODM,” her remarks signaled a potential thaw in the party’s internal divisions.
“ODM is my home and this is where I’m from,” she declared to loud applause, marking what many saw as both an emotional and political return to the party’s mainstream leadership. Her presence alone drew mixed reactions—some viewed it as a betrayal of the reformist wing, while others hailed it as a bold step toward reconciliation.
For months, Winnie had been a vocal critic of Oburu’s leadership, frequently appearing alongside Sifuna and his allies in press briefings and rallies that challenged the party’s hierarchy. Her pivot at the SDC, therefore, came as a surprise to many observers.
In her address, Winnie urged the party to embrace dialogue and inclusivity rather than alienating dissenting voices. “I’m going to ask for a spirit of reconciliation… a spirit that does not chase away, that does not force out, but opens and lets us in,” she said, drawing cheers from delegates.
She emphasized the need for internal reforms within ODM, particularly greater inclusion of young people and grassroots participation. “We want a party that opens doors and not closes them. We want leadership that listens and acts on our ideas,” she said.
Winnie outlined a vision for a more dynamic and accountable ODM, calling for stronger youth involvement beyond rallies, decentralization of power to grassroots branches, and a revitalized youth league capable of shaping policy. “Young people are demanding their rightful space on this table,” she added.
Her speech concluded with a reaffirmation of loyalty to ODM, coupled with a challenge for renewal. “This is my party… but let us change and make it a party for everybody,” she said.
