By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 28 May 2026 - Barely days after the high-octane ODM “Linda Mwananchi” rally held at Owuor’s Grounds in Kisumu City, the Orange Democratic Movement has quietly but significantly shifted political gears, abandoning the controversial “Linda Ground” slogan and retreating to its long-established battle cry —“ODM Chungwa Moja, Maisha Bora.”
The strategic rebranding now exposes the widening ideological and tactical fault-lines within the Orange party as fresh revelations emerge that the rival “Linda Mwananchi” faction is allegedly exploring plans to break away and form a new political outfit tentatively christened the Renaissance Party (RP).
The proposed movement is reportedly being associated with a group of outspoken ODM dissenters led by Siaya Governor James Orengo, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi and Vihiga Senator Geoffrey Osotsi among others — figures who have increasingly projected themselves as defenders of ODM’s traditional opposition identity amid the party’s evolving political posture.
Even so, both camps now appear firmly locked on a collision course towards the 2027 General Election.
While the rebel-allied camp seeks to recast itself as the custodian of the “original opposition spirit,” the mainstream ODM leadership under the stewardship of Rt. Hon. Dr. Oburu Oginga Odinga and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has moved with speed to consolidate the party’s grassroots machinery across Nyanza and beyond.
Political observers note that Oburu and Wanga have, over the last two weeks, intensified county tours, youth engagements and mobilisation drives in what insiders describe as a calculated effort to stabilize the party and reclaim its traditional support base before the internal dissent crystallizes into a full-scale rebellion.
The renewed momentum comes at a financially strategic moment for ODM after the party recently received a major cash injection from the Political Parties Fund. The disbursement forms part of the KSh 12 billion owed to political parties by the State, with ODM reportedly pocketing nearly KSh 4 billion in delayed allocations.
The funds have now injected fresh energy into the party’s dormant grassroots structures, enabling ODM operatives to reactivate local networks, reorganize ward mobilisers and prepare for an aggressive political campaign ahead of 2027.
Insiders within the party say the latest mobilisation strategy is heavily youth-centered, with ODM keen on reclaiming political dominance among first-time voters while countering growing dissatisfaction from sections of younger supporters who have recently gravitated toward anti-establishment rhetoric.
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It is against this backdrop that Oburu and Wanga have now unveiled what they describe as a historic political gathering dubbed the “Luo Declaration,” set for May 31, 2026 at Kirembe Grounds in Kisumu.
In a passionate rallying call, the two leaders urged Luo professionals, elders, youth and political loyalists to converge in Kisumu for what they termed a defining moment aimed at confronting internal divisions and reclaiming the community’s political voice.
The declaration is expected to serve both as a unity rally and a symbolic political reset after months of growing uncertainty within ODM following Raila Odinga’s diminished frontline political role.
Organisers say the gathering will focus on unity, dignity, political identity and the future direction of the Luo Nation amid emerging succession battles and shifting national alliances.
“This is the time for Luo sons and daughters to stand together and defend their heritage,” one organiser said ahead of the much-anticipated event.
With rival camps now openly positioning themselves for influence, and whispers of a possible Renaissance Party gaining traction in political corridors, the battle for the soul of ODM is no longer hidden beneath the surface.
The countdown to 2027 has effectively begun — and in Nyanza, the political drums are already beating loudly.
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