Kisumu Woman Representative and ODM Deputy Organising Secretary Ruth Odinga has emphatically urged the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to adhere strictly to its constitution in light of increasing demands for an immediate National Delegates Conference (NDC) to resolve leadership and strategic disputes.
In a Facebook post dated January 26, 2026, Ruth Odinga underscored the party’s foundational principle of member supremacy, stating, “One of the core values of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is the supremacy of Party members. While I may not be familiar with the values of other political parties in Kenya, this principle underscores our identity as a party of the people, for the people.”
She reaffirmed her commitment to upholding constitutional processes, asserting, “As the Deputy Organising Secretary, I stand firm in my belief that a structured and constitutionally sound Party is essential. Our path forward must be guided by the very rules we have established.”
The recent Central Management Committee (CMC) meeting in Vipingo, Kilifi County, represents a significant initial step for the ODM as it navigates the dynamics following Raila Odinga’s leadership while gearing up for the 2027 elections and ongoing discussions with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Addressing the calls for the NDC, Ruth Odinga cautioned against the dissemination of misinformation regarding its urgency. “While there have been calls for the National Delegates Conference, it is crucial to recognize that not all party organs have engaged in this discussion. We must appreciate the vital roles of each organ and understand why they are all significant. It is essential to dispel the misconception that the NDC should be our immediate next action. It should not.”
She characterized the CMC meeting as a pivotal first step, emphasizing, “This meeting was crucial, yet the ODM Constitution outlines the necessary procedures to ensure that every member’s voice is acknowledged and that every decision is legitimate.”
The CMC is responsible for formulating policies for higher organs, including deliberations on preparations for the 2027 elections and potential collaboration with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
“One of the principal issues discussed was the imperative to plan for the 2027 General Election, with the committee endorsing dialogue with UDA. The resolution shared with the press reaffirmed our commitment to cooperation with Kenya Kwanza and highlighted the importance of party unity amid internal challenges. Consequently, the next logical step must occur at the NEC level.”
Ruth Odinga called on National Chairperson Gladys Wanga to convene the National Executive Committee (NEC). “It is now incumbent upon our National Chairperson, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, to exercise her mandate under Article 6.3.3(vii) and convene the National Executive Committee (NEC). The NEC serves as the executive body responsible for executing the decisions of higher bodies and overseeing the Party’s daily operations.”
She delineated the process leading to the NDC: “This meeting serves as the gateway to our broader democratic process. The NEC meeting will facilitate the National Governing Council (NGC), our second-highest organ, which ensures that all recommendations are effectively monitored and directed nationwide.”
Ultimately, this structured pathway culminates in the National Delegates Conference (NDC). As outlined in Article 7.2.1, the NDC stands as the Supreme Organ of the Party, possessing the final authority to determine Party policy. It is within the NDC that we will review our manifesto, ratify our laws, and nominate our presidential candidate for the Republic of Kenya.”
Ruth Odinga passionately urged members to adhere to formal processes amid factional tensions, stating, “We must move beyond informal disputes and return to the structured engagement of our party organs. This approach will undoubtedly foster a resilient, united, and focused ODM. Let us commit to following the Constitution meticulously—from the NEC to the NGC, and ultimately to the NDC—to secure our future.”
