By Caren Owino, Kisumu
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has reaffirmed its commitment to coalition politics and cooperation with the government, as party leaders sought to reassure supporters about the party’s future following the death of its longtime leader, Raila Odinga.
Speaking at a rally in Kirembe, Kisumu County, on Sunday, party officials insisted ODM remained united and politically influential despite speculation over its direction in the post-Raila era.
Reading resolutions adopted at the gathering, ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga said the region remained firmly behind the party.
“The people of this region are united and indivisible, and any present or future political engagement will be pursued through ODM,” Ms Wanga told supporters. “Our strength has always come from our unity and our belief in a common political destiny.”
The party also reaffirmed its leadership structure under Party Leader Oburu Odinga and urged members to support decisions made by its governing organs, including the National Executive Committee and Central Committee.
“We remain steadfast under the leadership of Oburu Odinga and committed to the decisions of our party organs,” Ms Wanga said. “Discipline and loyalty to party resolutions will keep ODM strong.”
One of the key resolutions centred on ODM’s relationship with President William Ruto’s administration. Party leaders reiterated their commitment to the broad-based government arrangement and signalled their intention to continue building alliances ahead of future elections.
The resolution stated that ODM would remain in government “now and in the future” while working with partners to strengthen its political influence and pursue power through coalition-building.
Addressing the crowd, Oburu Odinga defended the party’s decision to work with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“We are in government today and we shall remain engaged because leadership is about securing opportunities and development for our people,” he said. “Politics is not merely about opposition; it is about ensuring that those who elected us benefit from government programmes and national resources.”
Mr Odinga said ODM’s current political arrangement differed from previous coalitions that left the party dissatisfied.
“This partnership is built on mutual respect and clear commitments,” he said. “We believe the promises made will be honoured and that ODM supporters will see tangible benefits from this cooperation.”
The party’s deputy leader and Kisii Governor Simba Arati urged supporters to embrace the coalition strategy while remaining loyal to ODM.
“ODM is not losing its identity by working with others,” Mr Arati said. “We are strengthening our position and ensuring that our voice remains influential in national affairs.”
He added: “The future belongs to leaders and parties that can build bridges, forge alliances and unite communities around development.”
Party leaders also used the rally to pay tribute to the late Raila Odinga, describing him as a political hero whose vision continues to shape the movement.
In the resolutions, ODM pledged to uphold the values associated with the former party leader, including social democracy, devolution, the rule of law and the strengthening of county governments.
“We remain committed to Raila Odinga’s vision of social democracy, devolution and justice for all Kenyans,” Ms Wanga said. “His ideals will continue to guide the party.”
Beyond politics, the party addressed several national concerns.
ODM acknowledged the economic difficulties facing many Kenyans, particularly rising fuel costs, and expressed hope that government interventions would help ease the burden on households.
“We recognise the hardships facing Kenyans and particularly the impact of high fuel prices,” Mr Arati said. “Leaders must focus on practical solutions that protect ordinary families.”
The party also raised concerns about school safety following the recent fire tragedy at Utumishi Academy in Gilgil, which claimed the lives of several students.
“We cannot continue losing children in preventable tragedies,” Ms Wanga said. “The recommendations made by previous commissions on school safety must be implemented urgently.”
Public health was another issue highlighted during the rally.
ODM called for wider public discussion and parliamentary scrutiny of internationally supported health programmes, particularly those related to Ebola preparedness, arguing that greater transparency was needed to counter misinformation and build public trust.
“We support public health interventions, but Kenyans deserve clear information and open discussion on matters that affect their health and wellbeing,” Mr Odinga said.
