A political supremacy battle played out at the Migwena Grounds during the first anniversary memorial of the late Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
The event, which brought together leaders from various political factions, quickly turned into a charged arena of competing chants regarding President William Ruto’s administration.
A stark division emerged between anti-establishment factions under the “Linda Wananchi” banner led by figures such as Edwin Sifuna, Babu Owino, and James Orengo and a united opposition wing that included Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa.
Tensions boiled over when the crowd erupted into rival slogans: opposition supporters shouted “one term,” while members allied to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) counter-chanted “two terms” in support of President Ruto’s tenure.
Addressing the congregation, leaders underscored the underlying political friction.
Siaya Governor James Orengo acknowledged the polarized sentiments, remarking, “Wanasema ‘two terms’… Wamewapa kazi. Imekupa kazi?”
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino rallied the crowd to defend the opposition’s stance, emphasizing that leadership transcends mere power or titles, stating, “Leadership is not about power, leadership is not about titles, leadership is not about the names that we have, but leadership is about the courage to defend injustice.”
Weighing in on party alignments, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi honored Raila as a vital mentor and father figure while calling on supporters to stay focused on the broader political vision for the country’s future.
Despite the friction on the ground, leaders used the platform to honor Odinga’s legacy of service, unity, and resilience.
Reinforcing this perspective, Kisii Governor and ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati strongly defended the party’s cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration.
Speaking during Raila Odinga 1st anniversary at Migwena sport grounds, Arati dismissed critics of the political pact, maintaining that ODM’s structures remain fully intact and operational.
”We are a party of programmatic engagement, ready to make conscious, patriotic choices to stabilize the republic when it matters most,” Arati told the gathering.
Looking ahead to the 2027 General Election, the Kisii Governor assured party faithful that ODM will conduct free, fair, and transparent nominations across all elective posts, including the Nairobi senatorial race.
Arati also lauded President Ruto for honoring the legacy of the late opposition chief, citing the recent handover of the pentagon shaped Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum as a profound testament to national unity and statesmanship.
He further commended the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) for executing the monumental construction project with exceptional professionalism and record speed.
The landmark event drew senior political figures, party members, and supporters from across the country to pay tribute to the founding ideals of multi-party democracy and social justice championed by the late liberation icon.
