- Governor Simba Arati urged ODM members to remain united following the death of former party leader Raila Odinga
- Arati urged Sifuna to remain firm despite tension within and outside the party regarding its future
- He also affirmed that ODM would either form the government in 2027 or be part of the next administration
Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features in digital and print media.
Kisii governor Simba Arati has issued a passionate call for unity within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as the party marks its 20th anniversary in Mombasa.
Source: Facebook
Speaking during the commemorative event on Thursday, November 13, Arati addressed growing concerns over internal divisions and the future of the party following the recent demise of ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Will the ODM party collapse?
Arati acknowledged the deep grief that gripped the party, noting that the emotional toll of losing its founding leader may linger for a long time.
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He urged ODM leaders and members to remain steadfast, committed to the party’s ideals, and warned against complacency and internal sabotage.
“What if our party dies before 2027 or 2032? Will we start from scratch? No!” Arati said. “There is uncertainty because of our party leader’s death. But I want to repeat: we will be the last people to destroy the trust you have given us.”
Arati also reaffirmed ODM’s strength and reach, asserting that the party remains the most formidable political force in the country.
He challenged those sowing discord within the ranks, saying they must be defeated to preserve the party’s legacy.
“If you are the one to play with the party, we must defeat you,” he warned.
Can ODM produce a presidential candidate?
Further, the ODM deputy leader called for strategic expansion and encouraged leaders to grow the party’s influence beyond traditional strongholds.
In a direct message to ODM secretary general Edwin Sifuna, Arati urged him to stand firm in his leadership.
“My brother SG, stand firm. I am confident that even from within this room, we can produce a president,” he said, hinting at the possibility of ODM fielding a presidential candidate in the next election cycle.
Source: Facebook
The county boss emphasised the need for collective responsibility and solidarity, declaring that no one should abandon the party.
“Nobody will exit the party. We will walk together closely; if anyone stumbles, we’ll help them up and continue the journey,” he said.
Arati further reiterated the party’s narration of forming a government or aligning with like-minded coalitions to form the next regime in 2027.
When will ODM produce a presidential candidate?
Meanwhile, Treasury Cabinet secretary John Mbadi expressed that Raila was the only viable presidential candidate for ODM, and his passing left a significant leadership void.
He emphasised that no one within the party can contest the presidency in 2027 or command national appeal like Raila once did.
Mbadi stated that ODM should restrategise and begin the process of nurturing a new leader, which will take time. According to Mbadi, ODM’s realistic chance of producing a presidential candidate lies in the 2032 elections.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
