ODM leaders have promised unity and renewed focus as senior party leaders met delegates in Kisii County, signalling an early push to consolidate support ahead of the next general election.
Suna East MP Junet Mohamed said the Orange Democratic Movement was “united, decided and on the move,” as he joined Party Leader Oburu Oginga, Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati and Chairperson Gladys Wanga at the #LindaGround delegates’ meeting.
“The ODM Party is united, decided and on the move. We are strengthening our bases as we consolidate and set our party ready for the coming election,” Mr Junet said.
The meeting brought together county and grassroots leaders in what party officials described as a deliberate effort to reinforce internal cohesion and re-energise the party’s support base following the death of long-time leader Raila Odinga.
Mr Oburu told delegates that the party was prioritising grassroots structures to ensure continuity and stability during the transition period. He said ODM remained anchored on strong institutions rather than personalities.
“ODM has structures that must be respected and strengthened. Our focus now is to organise the party from the ground up and reassure our members that the party remains stable,” Mr Oburu said.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati said the region remained central to ODM’s political future, adding that the party would continue to engage supporters directly through consultative forums.
“These meetings are about listening to our people, addressing their concerns and ensuring that ODM remains strong at the grassroots,” Mr Arati said.
Ms Wanga said the LindaGround initiative was part of a broader strategy to prepare the party early and entrench internal democracy. “Delegates are the backbone of the party. We want them fully involved as we prepare for the next phase,” she said.
The Kisii meeting comes at a time when ODM is working to steady its ranks amid internal adjustments and increased competition from rival political outfits seeking to make inroads into its traditional support bases.
Party officials say similar delegates’ forums will be held in other regions as ODM intensifies preparations for the next election cycle, with an emphasis on unity, grassroots mobilisation and rebuilding confidence among supporters.
