Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Members of Parliament have urged party leader Raila Odinga not to settle for anything less than the deputy presidency in future coalition talks, emphasizing the party's strong national footprint.

• Ikolomani MP Bernard Shinali stated that ODM must stop negotiating from a position of weakness, highlighting its long-standing dominance in Western regions.
• The call came amid internal wrangles, as Oburu Oginga attended two separate delegate gatherings organized by rival camps led by Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa and Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya.
• Lurambi MP Titus Khamala dismissed "propaganda" about members abandoning the party, while Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera warned against sidelining grassroots officials.
• Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka noted that Oburu's visits had reduced internal conflict by "70%," urging unity.
• Oburu Oginga urged members to intensify grassroots registration, stating, "Politics is about numbers. Without them, you cannot negotiate anything."

Recent discussions among allies of Oburu Oginga within the ODM party suggest a deviation from the political style and substance of Raila Odinga, prompting questions about the party's adherence to his progressive ideals.

• The article questions whether Raila Odinga's "progressive spirit" has departed from the ODM body.
• Raila Odinga is the leader of the ODM party.
• The context arises from statements made by allies of Oburu Oginga, hinting at a shift in the party’s political direction away from Raila Odinga’s known approach.

The political maneuvering within Kenya's Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is raising questions about its alignment with Raila Odinga's vision, particularly concerning the influence of Oburu Oginga's allies. This has led to speculation about whether Raila Odinga's progressive spirit still defines the party's direction.

• The article raises concerns that the politics of Oburu Oginga's allies within ODM do not reflect the style and substance of Raila Odinga.
• The central question is whether Raila Odinga's progressive spirit has departed from the ODM.
• The photograph shows ODM leader Raila Odinga addressing a press briefing after a Central Committee meeting in Nairobi on July 2, 2024.