Wycliffe Oparanya has offered to initiate dialogue with absent leaders as the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) grapples with internal divisions ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The Co-operatives and MSMEs Cabinet Secretary made the offer during an ODM delegates’ consultative meeting in Busia County on October 11, 2026. He expressed concern over the absence of several MPs and senior party officials.
Oparanya asked delegates to allow him to contact the missing leaders and encourage them to participate in party activities. His proposal comes amid disagreements over ODM’s leadership, political direction and relationship with President William Ruto’s administration.
Oparanya Seeks Dialogue
During the meeting hosted by Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, Oparanya said the absence of elected leaders at a delegates’ gathering raised concerns. He offered to personally reach out to those who did not attend, hoping to bring them together through discussions.
The former Kakamega governor said he would take responsibility for initiating the conversations. However, the report confirms his offer to lead dialogue efforts, not a formal appointment to chair an approved reconciliation committee.
Sifuna, Babu Owino and Orengo at the Centre of Divisions
The proposed outreach comes as Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Siaya Governor James Orengo remain associated with the Linda Mwananchi faction.
The group has criticised aspects of ODM’s current political direction and advocated for greater attention to the party’s founding principles and grassroots interests.
Sifuna has also pursued a separate political platform. Reports in early October identified him with The Equitable Party as he positioned himself ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, the political status of each leader should be distinguished carefully. The available reporting does not establish that all three have formally resigned from ODM or joined the same party.
ODM Faces Pressure Ahead of 2027
ODM leaders are navigating competing views about the party’s alliances and its strategy for the next general election. At the Busia meeting, party officials defended ODM’s continued strength while supporting cooperation with Ruto’s administration. Other leaders have questioned that political direction.
Oparanya’s proposed dialogue offers a possible avenue for addressing those differences. Whether it leads to broader reconciliation will depend on the willingness of the leaders involved to engage.
For now, his offer signals an attempt to open communication as ODM prepares for a consequential election cycle.
