The main figure in this developing conflict is ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, who has strongly reiterated his "Ruto Wantam" stance, asserting that President William Ruto should only be allowed a single term in office.
During a burial ceremony in Murang'a, Sifuna openly recognized that his steadfast opposition to the president has put him at odds with some members of his party.
He stated that the pressure and hostility directed at him are a direct result of his unwillingness to soften his criticism of the current government.
This disagreement arises at a time when ODM is moving towards broader collaboration with the Kenya Kwanza government, as evident from several senior ODM members accepting Cabinet positions.
This shift suggests a working relationship that some view as a strategic approach ahead of the 2027 general elections, yet it has unsettled members concerned about the party losing its identity as a leading opposition entity.
Sifuna has become a prominent dissenter within this changing environment.
While some ODM leaders seem to be accepting President Ruto's leadership and his future political ambitions, the Secretary-General insists that Kenya cannot endure another five years under the current regime.
His persistent use of the "Wantam" slogan aligns him with the emerging opposition group linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
This position is seen as a strategic political move designed to resonate with voters frustrated by economic struggles and government policies.
It also raises a fundamental question for ODM as it defines its future: should it continue as a partner in governance or reclaim its traditional role as the opposition?
For now, Sifuna appears resolute in his position, even as the party navigates the challenging path between cooperation and confrontation leading up to the 2027 elections.