ODM Power Play and Strategy to Cement Dominance in Western Kenya

ODM is on a mission to tighten its grip on Western Kenya, countering President Ruto’s growing influence in the region.

With a mega convention, grassroots mobilization, and new offices, the party is making bold moves to secure its dominance.

As internal rifts threaten unity, ODM leaders are working to present a strong front ahead of 2027. Can the party outmaneuver UDA’s surge and maintain its stronghold?

ODM Moves Aggressively to Secure Dominance in Western Kenya

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is doubling down on its efforts to solidify its grip on Western Kenya. This strategic push comes just days after President William Ruto toured the region, raising concerns within ODM about losing ground to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

To counter Ruto’s growing influence, ODM has mapped out a series of grassroots meetings and high-level conventions designed to strengthen party unity and mobilize support.

ODM leaders are now focusing on a February 28 mega convention expected to attract over 10,000 delegates.

The party will also open a new office in Bungoma, signaling its intent to challenge Ford Kenya’s dominance in the county. With internal disagreements simmering over ODM’s stance on Kenya Kwanza, the party is also working to present a united front ahead of the 2027 elections.

ODM’s Multi-Level Strategy to Maintain Political Stronghold

ODM is taking a multi-pronged approach to secure Western Kenya, ensuring its dominance remains unchallenged.

The strategy involves high-level meetings, grassroots mobilization, and strengthening internal unity.

High-Stakes Meetings and Key Events

The party has outlined a series of critical meetings to reinforce its position in the region:

• February 9: ODM’s top brass will meet Western Kenya leaders to strategize ahead of the mega convention.
• February 27: A key leadership meeting will take place in Bungoma County, where the party plans to open a new office.
• February 28: The much-anticipated mega convention in Busia will bring together over 10,000 delegates from the region.

These gatherings aim to counter the recent UDA-ANC merger and President Ruto’s attempts to woo ODM’s traditional voter base.

Grassroots Mobilization to Counter UDA’s Surge

ODM is actively engaging its grassroots networks to counter the increasing presence of UDA in the region.

The party is organizing meetings with branch leaders, aiming to reassure supporters and reaffirm its commitment to Western Kenya’s development.

“We are rolling out a series of activities to consolidate ODM’s support base. This includes grassroots engagements and leadership forums to strengthen party structures,” said ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi.

Internal Rifts and the Push for Unity

Despite its strategic moves, ODM faces internal tensions over its relationship with Kenya Kwanza. Some members have aligned themselves with President Ruto’s administration, causing division within the party.

Osotsi, however, clarified that ODM has no formal agreement with Kenya Kwanza. “As of now, ODM has no official deal with Ruto’s government. If anything changes, we will be transparent with our members,” he affirmed.

Busia Governor Paul Otuoma has cautioned against public disagreements, urging members to resolve issues internally to avoid weakening the party.

With ODM ramping up efforts to secure Western Kenya, the battle for political dominance in the region is heating up.

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether ODM can maintain its stronghold or if UDA’s influence will continue to grow.