Tension Brews in ODM as Oburu Fires Raila Odinga’s Staff in Latest Shake-Up

Fresh tension is reportedly emerging within the Orange Democratic Movement following a major internal shake-up linked to Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga.

The veteran politician is said to have dismissed more than 90 staff members who had previously worked under former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The move, which was reported by local media on March 12, has sparked intense discussion among party supporters and political observers, many of whom see it as a sign of shifting power dynamics within ODM as the country gradually prepares for the 2027 Kenyan General Election.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the affected staff members included employees who were based at Raila Odinga’s former political office at Capitol Hill in Nairobi. 

Others were involved in regional party coordination and grassroots mobilisation activities across different parts of the country.

Insiders say many of the employees were informed about the decision during a meeting held in Nairobi. 

Several reportedly learned about their dismissal directly during the gathering, making the development one of the most significant administrative changes within the party in recent years.

Reports further indicate that the restructuring went beyond regular employees. Some staff members who had special retirement arrangements from previous party structures were also affected, suggesting that the changes were part of a broader reorganisation effort rather than routine adjustments.

The internal shake-up is also linked to a new operational centre that Oburu is establishing in Nairobi. 

The new office is located in the upscale Riverside Drive area and is expected to serve as a central hub for coordinating ODM’s political activities.

The facility, situated near Strathmore University, is reportedly designed to function as a political secretariat where party planning, strategy discussions and national mobilisation efforts will be coordinated.

During the launch of the new office, Oburu reportedly assured party members that operations would continue in the spirit of the structures that had previously been established under Raila Odinga. 

He emphasised that the objective was to strengthen the party and improve coordination ahead of future political contests.

Observers say the senator’s growing visibility within ODM has also been reflected in increased logistical support for his political activities. 

Reports indicate that his security detail has expanded, with a chase car and helicopter support enabling him to travel quickly to political events across the country.

Political analysts believe these developments highlight a changing landscape within ODM as the party reorganises itself ahead of the next election cycle. 

Internal restructuring, they say, is often part of broader strategies aimed at strengthening political machinery and consolidating leadership authority.

However, the changes have also raised questions among some party supporters about how the transition will affect long-serving staff members and the broader unity of the party.