NAIROBI, Kenya– East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament Winnie Odinga has said that members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are being intimidated and excluded for associating with her, raising concerns about internal party practices.
Speaking during a live Citizen TV interview, Winnie stated that party members are being “de-whipped” simply for appearing on the same stage with her.
“People are being intimidated in ODM. People are being de-whipped simply for showing up on that stage with me,” she said.
“We have reached a situation where you are being told to fill out forms on whether you support the regime of the day. If you do, you will be given TSC slots; if you don’t, God knows what happens to you.”
Winnie Odinga: People are being intimidated in ODM. People are being de-whipped simply for showing up on that stage with me. We have reached a situation where you are being told to fill out forms on whether you support the regime of the day. If you do, you will be given TSC
She added that the party has not conducted its affairs openly, with some members misrepresenting themselves in ways that contradict the ODM constitution and founding principles.
“ODM has not fulfilled its mandate in an open manner,” Odinga said.
“The issue is people misrepresenting themselves and moving in a manner that is not respectful to the creeds of the party. They are not being respectful to the constitution of ODM.”
Despite her criticism, Odinga confirmed her loyalty to the party, noting that she remains a lifetime member and was nominated to the regional parliament through ODM.
“I am a lifetime member of ODM. I am an elected MP representing the people of Kenya in a regional Parliament, nominated by my party, ODM,” she said.
Winnie also clarified her relationship with her uncle, ODM Secretary General Dr Oburu Odinga, dismissing claims of a family feud.
“There is no family feud,” she said. “If there was a family feud, I doubt he would tell me that in public. Mambo ya nyumbani tunaongea kinyumbani, but mambo ya chama is not to be discussed at home.”
She added that Oburu supports her right to hold different opinions and that their family ties remain strong.
“I believe Dr Oburu would be the first person to defend my right to have different opinions. I love Dr Oburu, he is my only dad. Our family is tight. We have no problems at all,” she said.
Winnie Odinga: People are being intimidated in ODM. People are being de-whipped simply for showing up on that stage with me. We have reached a situation where you are being told to fill out forms on whether you support the regime of the day. If you do, you will be given TSC
ODM’s decision to pursue formal talks with UDA ahead of the 2027 polls has sparked debate among party ranks.
The UDA National Executive Committee recently mandated President Ruto to lead structured coalition negotiations with ODM, a move aimed at strengthening the Kenya Kwanza coalition and laying the groundwork for future electoral cooperation.
Some senior members within ODM argue that formalising this coalition framework could bolster stability and improve electoral prospects, citing mutual support for candidates during recent by‑elections as evidence of a productive partnership.
However, others have raised concerns about the party’s identity and autonomy.
Senior figures like Secretary‑General Edwin Sifuna have been among those insisting that ODM maintain an independent course, including potentially fielding its own presidential candidate instead of aligning fully with Ruto’s 2027 re‑election bid.
