Cracks Deepen in ODM as Raila Allies Rebel Against Ruto Cooperation
NAIROBI, Kenya
Rift lines are beginning to show within Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, as senior figures openly oppose both the government’s approach to devolution and the party's increasingly ambiguous stance on cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o and Siaya Governor James Orengo, both long-time allies of the opposition leader, have emerged as outspoken critics—signalling a growing discontent that could reshape ODM’s internal dynamics and its role as Kenya’s primary opposition force.
Nyong’o Slams Ruto Over Devolution Reversal
In a hard-hitting public statement titled “Allow Governors to Manage Devolution”, Nyong’o accused the Kenya Kwanza government of undermining the spirit of devolution by centralizing critical functions, especially concerning road infrastructure funding.
“The Ruto regime is taking us back to the Nyayo era,” he said, directly criticizing the continued operation of national bodies like KURA and KERRA, which he argues should be phased out under full devolution.
His remarks come amid a heated dispute between county governments and the national administration over control of the Road Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF), which governors claim has been diverted unfairly.
Pushback from Ruto’s Allies and ODM Leaders
Nyong’o’s critique drew sharp responses from Ruto-aligned leaders. Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot dismissed the governor’s remarks as political “blackmail,” claiming that Nyong’o was misdirecting blame in a bid to stir conflict.
Senator Samson Cherargei went further, accusing the Council of Governors (CoG) of stifling progress by politicizing service delivery. “The biggest threat to development today is not the national government, but these county bosses,” he said.
Orengo Deepens Rift by Opposing Ruto-Raila Cooperation
Adding fuel to the fire, James Orengo has also taken a hard stance against the perceived political cooperation between Raila and President Ruto. Speaking at a funeral attended by both leaders, Orengo warned ODM against becoming part of what he termed the “praise and worship choir” for the Kenya Kwanza regime.
“I will not support this so-called broad-based government unless it’s grounded on principle,” said Orengo, hinting at internal frustration over ODM’s lack of a clear stance on power-sharing.
This isn’t the first time Orengo has publicly challenged Raila’s direction. His growing opposition, particularly in politically sensitive forums, is now seen as a direct challenge to the party leader’s authority.
ODM Leadership Plays Damage Control
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna was quick to respond to mounting speculation of a rebellion, clarifying that Nyong’o is not a Deputy Party Leader and reaffirming the party’s unwavering stance on devolution.
“The ODM Party Leader has consistently supported the implementation of RMLF and devolution. The same cannot be said of the UDA Party Leader,” Sifuna stated.
Despite the rebuttal, the growing public dissent from influential figures such as Nyong’o and Orengo is raising serious questions about party unity, strategy, and its ability to maintain a cohesive front as the country edges toward the 2027 elections.
As opposition to the Ruto-Raila understanding continues to brew from within, the Orange party may be forced to confront an uncomfortable reality: that its traditional leadership consensus is no longer sacrosanct.
