Thousands of ODM supporters streamed into Kisumu on Sunday as senior party leaders sought to project unity and reinforce ODM’s political grip on its traditional strongholds ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The gathering, held at Kirembe Grounds and branded “Wabiro Kisumu”, brought together party officials, governors, Members of Parliament and grassroots supporters from across the Nyanza region in what leaders described as a major show of strength for the party.
For ODM, the rally was about more than numbers.
It came at a time when the party is facing growing internal debate over its political direction, including differing views on its relationship with President William Ruto’s administration and the future of opposition politics in Kenya.
Addressing supporters ahead of the event, ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga said the party was focused on consolidating its support base and strengthening grassroots structures.
“This is a major ODM rally that will bring together our national leadership and supporters from across the region,” Wanga said during preparations for the gathering.
Organisers said supporters travelled from Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Siaya and Kisii counties, with elaborate transport and security arrangements put in place to manage the large turnout.
Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko, who chaired the organising committee, described the rally as an opportunity to reaffirm party unity and prepare for future political battles.
“We want this to be a peaceful and productive gathering that demonstrates the strength and unity of ODM,” Ayacko said.
The event also highlighted the delicate balancing act currently facing the party.
While ODM leaders publicly emphasised cohesion, parallel political activities organised by rival factions within the broader ODM movement underscored lingering tensions over strategy and leadership ahead of 2027.
Some leaders have pushed for a tougher opposition stance against the government, while others favour continued engagement through the broad-based political arrangement that has seen sections of ODM work alongside President Ruto’s administration.
Political analysts say the rally was designed to reassure supporters that the party remains united despite those disagreements.
Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron described the gathering as a defining moment for both the party and its supporters, urging members to remain focused on ODM’s long-term political goals.
The rally marked the latest phase of ODM’s renewed grassroots mobilisation campaign across the Nyanza region, where the party continues to enjoy significant support.
As speeches, music and party slogans filled the grounds, the message from the leadership remained clear: ODM intends to protect its traditional base while positioning itself for the political contests that lie ahead.
Whether that unity holds as the race towards 2027 intensifies remains one of the biggest questions hanging over Kenya’s opposition politics.
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