The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is witnessing rising internal rivalry as factions intensify grassroots mobilisation to consolidate influence in its traditional strongholds ahead of the 2027 General Election.

One camp aligned to party leader Oburu Oginga has stepped up rallies and membership drives, positioning itself for a possible coalition with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

In contrast, the emerging “Linda Mwananchi” faction linked to ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna is running a parallel nationwide mobilisation ahead of a September declaration in Nairobi.

The announcement is expected to determine whether the group joins the United Opposition led by Rigathi Gachagua and Kalonzo Musyoka or pursues an independent path.

In a Central Management Committee meeting on Monday, Dr Oburu’s camp resolved to intensify grassroots recruitment and regular county engagements as part of its consolidation strategy.

Party insiders say the drive aims to reinforce ODM structures while testing possible coalition arrangements ahead of 2027.

Read: Oburu, Sifuna camps in battle to control bases ahead of 2027

Over the weekend, the faction held parallel meetings in Kwale and Homa Bay, drawing senior government and party leaders.

In Kwale, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho and Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Nassir urged support for President Ruto’s re-election, citing continuity, stability and development.

Governor Nassir warned against “empty rhetoric” and personality politics, arguing that leadership should focus on delivery and practical solutions.

In Homa Bay, Governor Gladys Wanga, Treasury CS John Mbadi, Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi and Interior PS Raymond Omollo rallied support for the government, with Mr Mbadi backing Governor Wanga’s second-term bid and calling for unity.

A similar youth-focused meeting is scheduled for Busia on June 28, bringing together representatives from all seven sub-counties to strengthen ODM structures and discuss economic empowerment.

Meanwhile, the Sifuna-led “Linda Mwananchi” faction has launched a nationwide tour covering at least 24 counties ahead of its September Nairobi declaration rally, which will determine its 2027 political direction.

Read: Going national: Sifuna team now targets non-ODM bases

The team has so far held about 11 rallies across Nairobi, Kajiado, Busia, Narok, Kakamega, Vihiga, Kisumu, Mombasa and Machakos, signalling expanding networks within ODM-linked structures.

Party insiders, including Mr Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, say the tour is meant to gather grassroots views before finalising the strategy for 2027. The itinerary includes upcoming rallies in Kisii, Trans Nzoia, Bungoma, Meru, Tharaka Nithi, coastal counties and parts of the Rift Valley.

The United Opposition, led by Mr Gachagua and Mr Musyoka, has also expressed interest in working with the faction to field a single presidential candidate against President Ruto, sharpening early coalition talks.