Poghisio made the remarks on Sunday while commenting on the growing divisions within the party following the death of its long-serving leader, Raila Odinga.
He noted that the current wave of activities led by a section of ODM members, particularly from the Nyanza region, could isolate the party from other parts of the country.
Poghisio cautioned that unless the party leadership works to maintain inclusivity and national representation, ODM could soon be reduced to a regional outfit centered in Nyanza.
“If ODM continues to embrace a regional or tribal approach, it will gravitate more toward Nyanza and risk becoming a regional rather than a national party,” Poghisio said.
He added that ODM had in the past built a reputation as a party with national influence and should strive to protect that legacy even after Raila’s demise.
His remarks come at a time when ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga and other leaders from the Nyanza region have intensified efforts to consolidate the party’s support base in the area.
The leaders have been holding a series of meetings and rallies to strengthen ODM’s structures and reaffirm loyalty among its supporters.
However, Poghisio insisted that the future of ODM depends on how it handles succession and inclusivity.
He urged the remaining national figures within the party to ensure that leadership transitions are guided by unity and national cohesion.
He added saying saying that Kenya’s multiparty democracy requires parties that represent all regions and communities, warning that regional politics would only weaken national unity and democratic growth.
