Kajiado North MP Onesmus Ngogoyo has asserted that President William Ruto aims to undermine the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and obstruct key party leaders from participating in essential meetings.
In a recent interview with a local TV station on February 9, 2026, Ngogoyo articulated concerns that Ruto seeks to diminish ODM’s influence and manipulate its internal dynamics. He stated, “What I can tell ODM is that William Ruto will ensure that party goes down; that is his agenda.”
Ngogoyo further detailed that part of this strategy includes preventing Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino from attending the forthcoming National Governing Council (NGC) meeting. He distanced himself from Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), firmly declaring his intention not to run on its platform. “Personally, I will not vie on a UDA ticket as I do not believe in their philosophy,” he remarked, while criticizing the government for neglecting its pre-election commitments.
As leadership disputes intensify within ODM, particularly following the passing of long-time party leader Raila Odinga, there has been a marked increase in calls for leadership reform. Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has emerged as a central figure in these discussions. Kileleshwa Ward MCA Robert Alai took to social media on January 11, urging that Sifuna and other officials be replaced during the next National Delegates Conference (NDC). “We must remove Sifuna and other fools at the NDC and during the day,” he expressed.
Similar sentiments have been echoed by Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma and prominent party members like John Mbadi, who have raised questions about Sifuna’s leadership within the party and his Senate role. Meanwhile, Migori Senator Eddy Oketch has called on acting party leader Oburu Oginga to convene the NDC to address the escalating tensions. Analysts suggest that these internal debates reflect broader uncertainties regarding the party’s future in the post-Raila landscape.
In the face of external pressures, ODM hardliners have firmly rejected perceived interference. During the “Linda Mwananchi” rally in Busia on February 8, Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi rallied supporters to oppose any merger with UDA. “Here in Busia, we have come out to protect the ODM party,” he asserted, accusing Ruto of attempting a covert takeover.
Siaya Governor James Orengo, who spoke alongside Osotsi and Sifuna, underscored the party’s commitment to its independence as the 2027 elections approach. “Nobody will force us into a government we do not agree with,” he declared. The rally attracted hundreds of orange-waving supporters, showcasing ODM’s enduring strength in Western Kenya despite ongoing internal strife and external challenges.
