MOMBASA, Kenya – EALA MP Winnie Odinga has dismissed claims of internal division within the Orange Democratic Movement, declaring that the party “is not for sale” amid growing political speculation following the death of former party leader Raila Odinga.
Speaking in Mombasa on Friday during the opening of the ODM@20 celebrations, Winnie delivered one of her strongest public statements yet, warning that attempts to “sell” or weaken the movement would fail.
“Forget the ODM split — it’s frog noise,” she told supporters. “There are others who walk with us day and night trying to sell the party. They will not succeed. ODM is not for sale.”
Winnie said the attempts to fuel confusion within the party were expected during a period of grief, but insisted the movement remained united and firmly rooted in its values.
‘ODM Was Not Made in a Bedroom’
Winnie dismissed reports of betrayal or secret deals within ODM, insisting the party’s future would not be negotiated in private quarters.
“ODM was not made in a bedroom, so its future will not be discussed as pillow talk,” she said, receiving loud applause from the crowd.
She emphasised that ODM had earned its place in Kenya’s political history through sacrifice, resilience and public struggle—not through behind-the-scenes bargaining.
“ODM has been the heartbeat of the Kenyan people for 20 years. It was born in protest and raised in resistance,” she said. “Our people have bled, sweated and cried for this movement.”
Youth as the Party’s Backbone
Winnie praised young members who continued to attend ODM events even after Raila’s death, saying their commitment proved the party was growing stronger—not weaker.
“It means something that after Baba’s death, these young people are seated here because they have conviction,” she said.
The ODM@20 celebrations continue in Mombasa until November 16, 2025.
