Senior Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) member and Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament, Peter Kaluma, has acknowledged that there are internal divisions within the party.
In a statement dated Sunday, February 23, Kaluma clarified that the disagreement within ODM is not about the party’s core values but rather about strategies for capturing power.
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“All members agree that ODM must remain strong and field candidates, including a presidential candidate, in all future elections. The members also recognize that it is nearly impossible for a single political party to win elections in multi-ethnic Kenya without forming coalitions,” the statement read in part.
Kaluma highlighted that the party is currently split into two factions: one advocating for a coalition with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and another seeking to associate with President William Ruto.
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According to Kaluma, the pro-Gachagua faction, which includes figures like Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, George Natembeya, and Fred Matiang’i, aims to remove President Ruto from power to enable Gachagua to take political revenge.
Kaluma Confirms Divisions Within ODM Party
In contrast, Kaluma claims that the faction aligning with President Ruto is focused on principles such as social justice, equity, inclusion, the rule of law, and constitutionalism—values they allege Gachagua has disregarded due to tribalist tendencies.
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Kaluma further revealed that both factions are trying to gain the support of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
“For sure, both sides are doing all they can to pull Raila Odinga to their side,” Kaluma added.
Political divisions within ODM intensified after Raila Odinga and President Ruto formed a broad-based government, which saw several ODM members joining the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Some party members have embraced this partnership, while others have remained critical.
Also Read: ODM Chairman Hints Sifuna to Be Kicked Out of the Party
Prominent leaders supporting the broad-based government include Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sharrif Nassir, Nyando MP Jared Okello, and Suna East MP Junet Mohammed.
On the opposing side, those critical of the broad-based government include Siaya Governor James Orengo, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
Recently, President Ruto and his allies have been courting Odinga following the African Union Commission (AUC) elections held on February 15, 2025. During a dinner in Addis Ababa, President Ruto expressed support for Odinga, emphasizing that his loss should not be seen as a setback but as an opportunity for future collaboration.
Ruto and Gachagua Court Raila After AUC Defeat
Some MPs have welcomed the possibility of Odinga working with Ruto, suggesting it could foster national unity and strengthen governance.
Ruto’s allies have even proposed creating a Prime Minister position for Odinga. In response, Raila acknowledged Ruto’s support during his AUC bid and has not dismissed the possibility of future collaboration.
Also Read: ODM Clears the Air on Supporting Babu Owino in 2027
Meanwhile, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua penned an emotional message praising Raila for his resilience and commendable leadership during the AUC election.
Gachagua emphasized the importance of unity, hinting at the potential for future cooperation to address Kenya’s challenges.
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