- Winnie Odinga caused a stir at Jamhuri ASK Grounds after making a surprise appearance at the Orange Democratic Movement’s Special National Delegates’ Meeting (NDC)
- The entrance of the member of the East African Legislative Assembly attracted attention, especially from the point of view that he is leaning on the side of the group led by Edwin Sifuna, while publicly recognizing Oburu Oginga as the leader of the party
- In her speech, Winnie called for unity and reconciliation within ODM, urging leaders to embrace inclusion and give space to different voices.
Cheers and cheers dominated the air at Jamhuri ASK Grounds after Winnie Odinga making a surprise entry into the NDC special meeting of the Orange Democratic Movement.
Source: Twitter
Winnie’s thunderous entry into the much-publicized meeting marked a unique event in a party gathering that was already marred by internal divisions.
Why did the arrival of Winnie Odinga attract attention?
The arrival of the member of the East African Legislative Assembly on Friday, March 27, immediately cheered up the delegates who had gathered from all over the country.
His appearance was ambiguous, due to the perception that he is leaning on the side of Linda Mwananchi, a group linked to the Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna which had previously held a parallel meeting at Ufungano House.
Winnie’s entry, shortly after the important agenda was passed, was greeted with loud cheers, indicating her growing influence among the grassroots and especially the youth of the party.
Many delegates stood, waved party colors and chanted as he made his way to sit in front of the stage, where he embraced his uncle, ODM leader Oburu Oginga.
What did Winnie Odinga say about ODM leadership?
In a move that could change ODM’s internal dynamics, Winnie publicly recognized Oburu Oginga as the leader of the party during her speech, despite his previous association with Linda Mwananchi’s group.
“I say this with great humility, congratulations to the leader of the party. And we believe that when we lead this next cycle of change as they call you a youth leader, you will open a place in this party for millions of young Kenyans,” said Winnie.
The MP’s statements had a tone of reconciliation at a time when the party is facing factional divisions.
He referred to ODM as his political home and called for unity, urging members to embrace a broader and more inclusive vision for the party.
His speech focused on the need to reform the party so that it better reflects the expectations of young people and grassroots members.
What is Winnie Odinga’s vision about the “new ODM”?
Winnie used her speech to outline what she called the vision of the “new ODM,” placing youth empowerment at the center of the party’s future.
He called for leadership that listens and implements the ideas of the youth, stressing that participation should not end only in mobilizing the crowd at meetings.
According to him, young members want a place at the decision-making table and a role in policy making and negotiations.
He also emphasized decentralization within the party, advocating strong grassroots structures and strong branches in various areas.
“When we talk about the new ODM we want, we want a party that opens doors instead of closing them. We want a leadership that listens to our challenges and takes action on our ideas. We want youth participation that goes beyond meetings. We want to be associated with our voices influencing decisions and negotiations. We want the devolution of power,” he said.
He said reviving the youth community will be important to turn it into a platform where young people can contribute fully to policy discussions.
Winnie asked for a spirit of mutual understanding within the party, encouraging leaders and members to give space to different opinions instead of pushing them out.
His message seemed to be aimed at bridging the gap between rival groups that have been taking their differences public.
He stressed the importance of building a party that welcomes participation and promotes dialogue instead of isolating some groups.
“I say this with great humility because we must give space to these people instead of just calling them when they need to shout. So when we conclude this section, one thing I will ask for is a spirit of reconciliation, a spirit of understanding, a spirit of listening, a spirit that does not push away or chase, but that opens up and allows us to enter. We want space, we want a face for ODM,” added Winnie.
Did Osotsi lose his leadership position in ODM?
In a related statement, members approved changes in the leadership of the party during the Special Meeting of Members.
The meeting chaired by Oburu Oginga adopted the proposal of the National Leadership Council to fill the vacant positions.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi was removed as the party’s deputy leader, while his matter was referred to the National Executive Committee for further investigation.
Governor of Homa Bay Gladys Wanga he announced that the party has adopted the report of the council to modify the leadership structure and formalize the changes.
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