NAIROBI, Kenya — ODM Party Leader Dr. Oburu Odinga has announced a family meeting set for 1st February, aimed at engaging relatives amid internal tensions following the death of Raila Odinga and ahead of ODM-UDA power-sharing negotiations.
Dr. Odinga said the meeting is meant to listen to differing opinions, provide guidance, and reinforce family unity.
“There will be a family conversation, including a meeting planned for 1st February, to engage relatives and young people who are of different opinion, listen to their views, and assure them of love, care, support, and guidance as part of one family,” he said.
He added that the meeting is part of a broader effort to strengthen cohesion and understanding.
“I affirm that I am there for them and up to task, ready to offer advice and help, and I assure them that this process continues as a family engagement focused on unity, understanding, and support.”
The announcement comes at a time when internal disagreements have surfaced within ODM, particularly in the wake of Raila Odinga’s passing and the party’s preparations for upcoming negotiations with UDA over power sharing.
Analysts say the meeting underscores the party’s effort to prevent infighting from weakening its position ahead of critical political discussions.
Dr. Odinga has emphasized the importance of discipline, collective decision-making, and constructive dialogue to safeguard ODM’s integrity and ensure that the party remains united as it navigates the delicate negotiations.
“Discipline within the party is essential, and once a decision is made by an organ that includes a member, that member has no right to publicly take an opposing position after participating in that decision,” he said.
“Democracy allows the minority to express its views while the majority prevails, and that principle guides collective action and stability in governance.”
