### ODM’s Western Region Tour: A Tale of Factions and Future Aspirations
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) recently wrapped up a pivotal tour of the Western region, specifically through its “Linda Ground” operation. This tour encapsulated not only strategic discussions but also the evident rift within the party, exemplified by the holding of parallel county delegates consultative forums.
### Parallel Meetings: A Split in Unity
Two distinct meetings illuminated the divisions within ODM. The first was organized by Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa at the elegant Golf Hotel, while the second unfolded at Emabole Primary School in Butere Sub-County, organized by Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera. This split emerged as a notable reflection of the party’s internal quarrels, particularly following the Kakamega County delegates’ elections held in September, resulting in two different factions claiming leadership.
### Prominent Figures in Attendance
At both gatherings, ODM party leader Dr. Oburu Odinga made a significant appearance, emphasizing the importance of unity within the party’s ranks. His presence was pivotal, indicating an effort to mitigate the factionalism that has threatened to undermine the party’s cohesiveness.
### The Struggle for Leadership
The root of the division traces back to the elections where Barasa was elected chairman by one group of delegates at Makhokho High School, while another faction endorsed Nabwera. This stark divide has not only led to the formation of the “G8” group, associated with Nabwera, but has also created an ongoing struggle for influence within the party in Kakamega.
### A Unified Message for the Future
While addressing attendees at the Emabole forum, Dr. Odinga expressed his commitment to fostering unity between the factions. He articulated his recognition of the challenges faced, mentioning a collaborative approach with fellow party members like CS Wycliffe Oparanya to heal the rift. His affirmations of unity resonated with party loyalists eager for a consolidated front moving forward.
### Key Players in the Factional Divide
The G8 grouping includes a formidable list of leaders, showcasing a diverse political spectrum within ODM itself. This faction comprises Nabwera, MPs Titus Khamala (Lurambi), Fred Ikana (Shinyalu), Bernard Shinali (Ikolomani), Emmanuel Wangwe (Navakholo), Christopher Aseka (Khwisero), Kakamega Woman MP Elsie Muhanda, and the influential Oparanya. Conversely, Barasa’s faction features Innocent Mugabe (Likuyani), Tindi Mwale (Butere), and Johnston Naica (Mumias West). Collectively, both factions represent ten MPs in Kakamega, accentuating the significant political stakes involved.
### Broader Consultations and Political Maneuvering
In addition to the Kakamega meetings, ODM also held a delegates consultative forum in Malaba town, Busia. Here, the resolutions from the Central Management Committee meeting in Kilifi were endorsed, propelling the party to initiate structured negotiations with various political coalitions, prominently with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
### Absences in Leadership
Interestingly, the internal dynamics of ODM are further complicated by the absence of party figures like Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and Deputy Leader Godfrey Osotsi from the Western tour. Both leaders, despite hailing from the region, opted out, citing the deepening internal schisms and signaling a noteworthy departure from collective efforts toward party cohesion.