Radio host Alex Mwakideu has raised concerns over the current state of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying the party is no longer the same after the death of Raila Odinga.
Speaking about the situation on Friday, April 17, 2026, Mwakideu pointed out that the party has since split into two groups. One side supports President William Ruto and his United Democratic Alliance, UDA, while the other remains opposed. He explained that this division has changed how ODM operates and weakened its unity.
“I miss ODM, ya Baba,” Alex Mwakideu said.
Since Raila Odinga died on October 15, 2025, at Devamatha Hospital in India, ODM has faced internal struggles. Mwakideu explained that Baba’s absence created a leadership gap that has not been fully addressed.
He said the party now appears divided, with leaders taking different political directions. This has raised questions about the future of the party and its strength in the future.
UDA influence?
Mwakideu also said that some ODM members are tired of UDA targeting their members, especially MPs, and trying to convince them to defect. He said this has been happening for some time and has caused tension within the party.
“Na wana ODM wote wakakubaliana kwa kauli moja kwnye ule mkutano wa mheshimiwa Oburu Odinga ambaye ndio alikua anashikilia pale kama party leader,” he said.
He further explained that ODM leaders warned UDA against continuing to approach their members. He said the party made it clear that enough is enough and that they will take action if the situation does not change.
This includes stepping back from supporting President Ruto and cutting off talks between the two parties. He added that some ODM members are now planning to focus on rebuilding its strength at the grassroots level.
“Wakasema kwamba wamechoka na wana UDA kunyemelea viongozi wao hasa wa ODM wale ma MPs,” he explained.
Mwakideu also questioned whether ODM leaders had stopped focusing on growing the party before these recent decisions. He raised concerns about how long UDA has been influencing ODM leaders and members and what it means for the party’s future.
