NAIROBI, Kenya – The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has been thrown into a political tailspin after a section of its life members filed a petition demanding the immediate resignation of party leader, Oburu Oginga.
Led by Rachael Tabitha, the ODM life members said they were submitting the petition in exercise of their rights as loyal, dedicated, and constitutionally recognised life members of the party.
“Since its formation, ODM has been grounded in the ideals of constitutionalism, internal democracy, transparency, accountability, rule of law, and protection of members’ rights,” the petition reads in part.
According to Tabitha, these values form the foundation of the ODM Constitution and the legacy of its former leader, Raila Odinga (deceased).
“It is with deep concern that we note actions and decisions attributed to Hon. Oburu Odinga and a select group of individuals that undermine the very principles ODM has defended for decades,” the petition dated Tuesday, November 18, 2025, further reads.
The petition reads: “The deliberate disregard for due process, violation of internal democratic procedures, and failure to respect the rights of life members signal a dangerous departure from the constitutional order of the party.”
Through the petition, Tabitha notes that it is ‘deeply’ inappropriate for some leaders to speak with pride and boldly declare that they are legitimately in office, while the party constitution, particularly article 6.2.2(b), has been blatantly violated.
“Such defiance undermines the very principles of accountability, fairness, and respect for due process that our party stands for. Such conduct erodes public confidence, delegitimises party organs, and contradicts the very rule of law that ODM has historically championed,” she added.
Tabitha observed that ODM was built on the belief in “the safeguarding and following of the constitution and the rule of law.”
“Today, many loyal members feel excluded, ignored, and sidelined in the party.”
What are the ODM life members’ demands
Pursuant to the ODM Constitution, the principles of good governance, and the rights of party members, the members demand the immediate resignation of Oburu Odinga from any party leadership positions he currently occupies, for violating internal democratic norms and undermining party cohesion.
The ODM life members have also demanded the convening of an urgent National Delegates Convention (NDC) on what they term as a move to deliberate on the current governance crisis, restore legitimacy to party structures, and reaffirm ODM’s constitutional values.
“Full respect and recognition of life members and all ODM members, including adherence to their constitutional rights, participation in party decision-making, and protection from exclusionary practices.”
The members, through Tabitha, have also notified the National Elections Board that if the above actions are not undertaken within thirty (30) days from the date of the petition, they will tender their resignation from the party, as a matter of principle, in protest under the Raila school of thought against the ongoing violation of constitutional order.
“ODM is more than an institution—it is a movement built on sacrifice, struggle, and an unyielding quest for justice and democracy. We therefore expect the NEB to act promptly, impartially, and in full fidelity to the Constitution of our party,” the petition further reads.
How Oburu Odinga was ratified as the ODM party leader
On November 13, 2025, the ODM party’s National Governing Council (NGC) approved the appointment of the Siaya senator as the political behemoth’s leader, officially succeeding his late younger brother, Raila Odinga.
The announcement, which followed the NGC’s special sitting in Mombasa ahead of the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations, came as the council sought to chart the way forward by ratifying appointments to pending positions.
The NGC also approved the three deputy party leaders, comprising Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, his Kisii counterpart Simba Arati, and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi.
Kisumu woman representative Ruth Odinga and Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu were also ratified to the positions of deputy organising secretary and secretary of political affairs, respectively.
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