Summary
- Oburu Odinga has warned ODM members against publicly opposing party decisions.
- He urged dissenting leaders to prove influence within party structures.
- The remarks were made during the ODM National Delegates Convention in Nairobi.
NAIROBI, Kenya- Oburu Odinga has challenged dissenting members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to prove their political strength within party structures instead of publicly opposing decisions.
Speaking during the ODM Special National Delegates Convention held in Jamhuri Grounds, Oburu defended the party’s democratic processes and called for discipline among leaders.
Respect Majority Decisions, Oburu Says
Oburu emphasised that ODM operates under structured democratic principles, where decisions are made through established organs.
“A democratic party has structures, and when you are a leader, you must go by the cardinal principles of democracy,” he said.
He noted that while minority opinions are allowed, final resolutions must reflect the will of the majority.
“The minority will have its say and the majority will have their way. Democracy does not mean chaos,” he added.
Leaders Criticised for Public Opposition
The ODM leader criticised officials who preside over meetings but later publicly oppose resolutions passed by the same bodies.
He warned that such actions undermine party unity and leadership credibility.
“You cannot lead a meeting and then come out to attack what the party has agreed on,” Oburu said.
While reiterating that ODM does not expel dissenting members, he said those who consistently oppose party decisions may not be fit to hold leadership positions.
Prove Influence Within Party Structures
Oburu urged critics to channel their disagreements through internal mechanisms instead of seeking public sympathy.
“If you are strong enough, convince your colleagues that you have a majority,” he said.
He dismissed claims of victimisation, insisting that internal competition within party organs is the proper way to resolve disputes.
The convention brought together ODM leaders and members to chart the party’s direction ahead of upcoming political activities, with unity and internal discipline emerging as key themes.
