Suna East MP Junet Mohamed has dismissed claims by a section of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders positioning themselves for a presidential run, insisting that the party’s constitution clearly vests that authority in the party leader.
Speaking in his constituency on Saturday, December 27, 2025, the Minority Leader said ODM is not a free-for-all when it comes to presidential ambitions.
According to him, party rules are explicit that the ODM leader is the presumed presidential candidate and the ultimate decision-maker on whether the party fields a candidate or backs another contender.
Junet stated that, as things stand, Oburu Odinga holds that authority and will determine the party’s direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“There are people saying ODM must have a presidential candidate,” Junet said.
“Our constitution is very clear. The party leader is the presidential candidate, and the party leader is Oburu Odinga. He is the one who will tell us whether he will run or whether the party will support someone else.”
The MP cautioned party members against what he termed premature political posturing, warning that public declarations outside established party structures only serve to sow confusion among supporters.
Junet further asserted that only the party leader is mandated to speak authoritatively on ODM’s strategic decisions, including coalition talks and support for or against President William Ruto’s second-term bid.
The MP cautioned party members against what he termed premature political posturing, warning that public declarations outside established party structures only serve to sow confusion among supporters.
Junet further asserted that only the party leader is mandated to speak authoritatively on ODM’s strategic decisions, including coalition talks and support for or against President William Ruto’s second-term bid.
Any statements to the contrary, he said, should be treated as personal opinions rather than official party positions.
His remarks come against the backdrop of rising internal tensions within ODM, sparked by differing views on the party’s role in the broad-based government and its strategy for 2027.
In recent weeks, Siaya Governor James Orengo has openly questioned ODM’s reluctance to front a presidential candidate, arguing that the party risks losing its ideological identity if it fails to contest the top seat.
Orengo has publicly stated that he has the capacity to run for president and believes ODM should remain competitive at the national level.
Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has also declared interest in the presidency, expressing dissatisfaction with proposals for ODM to back President Ruto.
She has argued that if the party believes it lacks a suitable flag bearer, then members willing and capable should be allowed to step forward.
Junet, however, dismissed such assertions, saying ODM cannot operate outside its constitution simply to accommodate individual ambitions.
He warned that discipline and respect for party rules are essential if ODM is to remain cohesive heading into a politically charged election cycle.
Wrangles within the party have increasingly exposed two distinct camps. One faction, associated with Oburu Odinga, is inclined toward supporting President Ruto in 2027 as part of broader political realignments.
The opposing faction, linked to ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Governor Orengo and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, has pushed back strongly against the idea, arguing it undermines the party’s legacy.
Senator Osotsi recently intensified the debate while speaking in Bondo, calling for strict adherence to ODM structures.
His remarks come against the backdrop of rising internal tensions within ODM, sparked by differing views on the party’s role in the broad-based government and its strategy for 2027.
In recent weeks, Siaya Governor James Orengo has openly questioned ODM’s reluctance to front a presidential candidate, arguing that the party risks losing its ideological identity if it fails to contest the top seat.
Orengo has publicly stated that he has the capacity to run for president and believes ODM should remain competitive at the national level.
Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has also declared interest in the presidency, expressing dissatisfaction with proposals for ODM to back President Ruto.
She has argued that if the party believes it lacks a suitable flag bearer, then members willing and capable should be allowed to step forward.
Junet, however, dismissed such assertions, saying ODM cannot operate outside its constitution simply to accommodate individual ambitions.
He warned that discipline and respect for party rules are essential if ODM is to remain cohesive heading into a politically charged election cycle.
Wrangles within the party have increasingly exposed two distinct camps. One faction, associated with Oburu Odinga, is inclined toward supporting President Ruto in 2027 as part of broader political realignments.
The opposing faction, linked to ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Governor Orengo and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, has pushed back strongly against the idea, arguing it undermines the party’s legacy.
Senator Osotsi recently intensified the debate while speaking in Bondo, calling for strict adherence to ODM structures.
He argued that for the party to function effectively, only the party leader and the secretary general should serve as official spokespersons.
“Respect our rules,” Osotsi said.
“Respect our rules,” Osotsi said.
“Allow the party leader and the secretary general to speak for ODM. That is the only way we can make progress.”
His comments drew a swift response from Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, who defended the authority of the party leader.
Wandayi cited Article 16 of the ODM constitution, which he said gives the party leader sole mandate to guide the party’s direction, including coalition negotiations.
As ODM navigates these internal disagreements, Junet urged members to prioritise unity and patience, noting that the party still has ample time to make a final decision on its 2027 strategy.
“ODM has always thrived when it follows its constitution,” he said.
“That is the path we must stick to if we want to remain strong and relevant.”
His comments drew a swift response from Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, who defended the authority of the party leader.
Wandayi cited Article 16 of the ODM constitution, which he said gives the party leader sole mandate to guide the party’s direction, including coalition negotiations.
“ODM has always thrived when it follows its constitution,” he said.
“That is the path we must stick to if we want to remain strong and relevant.”
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