ODM Not Splitting, It’s “Survival Mode” – Olekina Explains Sifuna and Babu’s Political Moves Ahead of 2027

Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has dismissed claims that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is headed for a breakup ahead of the 2027 General Election. He said the party remains united and strong, despite growing reports of internal divisions. According to Olekina, what many are calling a crisis is simply ODM adjusting to new political realities.

Speaking in a post on X, Olekina said media reports suggesting a split are misleading. He argued that the party is in “survival mode” following the death of former prime minister Raila Odinga. He explained that leaders are now repositioning themselves, but this does not mean ODM is falling apart.

“Media is dead wrong. ODM isn’t splitting. This is survival mode,” Olekina said. He added that Nairobi politics should not be mistaken for the direction of the entire party. He also warned ODM secretary general Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino against assuming that city politics alone can shape ODM’s future.

However, Olekina acknowledged that Sifuna and Babu appear to be warming up to opposition figures such as Kalonzo Musyoka and Rigathi Gachagua. He explained that their political behaviour is influenced by the nature of Nairobi voters, who are largely cosmopolitan and politically liberal.

According to Olekina, the Kamba and Kikuyu communities form a large voting bloc in the capital. As a result, politicians seeking to retain seats in the city must align with influential leaders from these communities. “They won city voters who are cosmopolitan and liberal. They want leaders who speak their true political language,” he said.

Moreover, Olekina said Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka remains a powerful figure among Kamba voters and is likely to play a key role in the 2027 elections. He added that politicians cannot ignore Kalonzo’s influence if they want to stay relevant in city politics.

At the same time, Olekina pointed out that former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua is also rising politically. He said Gachagua is positioning himself as a strong mobiliser and could attract support through ethnic-based narratives. For this reason, Olekina advised Sifuna and Babu to remain strategic and flexible.

Meanwhile, Gachagua has hinted at supporting Sifuna in 2027. He claimed President William Ruto plans to push Sifuna and Babu out of ODM. He even offered them space in his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) if they are expelled.

Gachagua praised Sifuna’s performance and said he would gladly give him a DCP ticket. Still, Olekina insists ODM remains intact and focused on rebuilding ahead of 2027.