The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party is inviting applications from aspirants for the 2027 General Elections as a strategy to map its influence and address past nomination issues.

• The party is seeking to identify regions of strength and potential weakness, particularly in light of the absence of its former leader, Raila Odinga.
• Unlike other parties, ODM is not charging application fees, aiming to build a database of potential candidates by June 30.
• Emphasis is being placed on ensuring free, fair, and transparent nominations to restore confidence among aspirants and maintain national competitiveness.

ODM leadership is actively working to unite its officials in Kakamega County following internal rifts and increasing pressure from rival party UDA.

• Oburu Odinga, the Party Leader, convened a crucial consultative meeting in Nairobi on Monday.
• The meeting aimed to mend divisions and bolster the party's standing in a traditional stronghold.
• This comes amidst concerns about potential fallout and external political challenges.

Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has revealed that hardliners within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) frustrated his efforts to unite rival factions, which he believes is crucial for the party's negotiation power with UDA.

• A crisis meeting convened by ODM party leader Oburu Oginga aimed to end political tension among Kakamega County politicians.
• Mr. Oparanya believes party unity is essential for ODM to negotiate as equal partners with President William Ruto’s UDA.
• Hardliners, including Treasury CS John Mbadi, opposed reconciliation efforts, with factions like Linda Mwananchi issuing strict conditions for reunion following the death of Raila Odinga in October 2025.

Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi is reportedly consolidating his political influence in Luo Nyanza and positioning himself for a post-Raila Odinga era, sparking debate within the ODM party.

• Mr. Mbadi's public statements, particularly a video released after a ODM meeting in Kilifi on May 4, have been interpreted by some as disrespectful to the late Raila Odinga.
• Other political figures such as Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and former CS Eliud Owalo are also vying for political dominance in the region.
• Despite criticism, Mr. Mbadi has stood by his remarks, emphasizing the need for the ODM party to move forward and accepting that interpretations of his words vary.