The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has announced the start of its “Linda Ground” county tours, scheduled to begin on Saturday, January 17, 2026, as the party intensifies grassroots engagement across Western Kenya. The announcement was made through an official party poster detailing the tour schedule and locations.
The first stop will be in Malaba, Busia County, on January 17, followed by a rally in Kakamega town on January 18. The tour aims to reconnect the party with its supporters, local leaders, and residents while strengthening ODM’s presence at the community level.
The initiative was officially launched on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Kamukunji Grounds in Kibra Constituency, Nairobi. The launch event was led by Homa Bay Governor and ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga, alongside Party Leader Oburu Odinga. The gathering marked ODM’s first major engagement at the historic Kamukunji Grounds, a site closely associated with the late Raila Odinga’s political legacy.
Speaking at the launch, Oburu Odinga emphasised that the party remains committed to unity and has no intention of expelling any of its members. He said ODM’s strength lies in its cohesion and national reach, which positions it as the country’s largest political party.
Oburu noted that unity is essential as the party prepares for future political negotiations. He said ODM must approach any coalition talks from a position of strength, not weakness, and highlighted the party’s extensive structures and political history as key assets.
“As long as we remain united, we will negotiate from a position of strength,” Oburu said, adding that members who wish to leave the party should do so voluntarily.
The weekend-long tour is expected to draw large crowds as party leaders address key issues, including community development, civic engagement, and ODM’s political priorities. According to the party poster, Oburu Odinga will headline the events and speak directly to residents on the party’s agenda.
Oburu also reaffirmed ODM’s support for the current broad-based government arrangement, saying it will remain in place until 2027. He added that while internal debate is welcome, safeguarding party unity remains a top priority.
The “Linda Ground” tour signals ODM’s renewed focus on grassroots mobilisation as the party positions itself for future political engagements.
