The row erupted following a widely shared screenshot showing Oburu Odinga praising Sifuna as a “sober and principled voice” who embodies the democratic ideals of the party. In the statement dated January 7, 2026, Oburu sought to project unity, insisting that ODM remains solid despite internal disagreements.
“We are one. We are united as the ODM PartybDifferences of opinion do not mean division,” Oburu stated after his meeting with Sifuna.
Alai, however, responded with sharp criticism, accusing Oburu of being misled and warning that the party was staring at self-destruction.
In his reaction, Alai claimed that some leaders had already “decided to go,” arguing that their actions were undermining ODM from within.
“Seems like our party leader is being fooled by the likes of Sifuna. This is going to weaken and destroy ODM,” Alai wrote
The exchange has ignited debate among ODM supporters, laying bare the growing ideological and strategic divisions within the party.
While Oburu’s remarks framed Sifuna as a stabilising and principled figure, Alai’s comments suggest deep mistrust and frustration among a section of the party’s grassroots leaders.
Political analysts say the very public fallout underscores ODM’s ongoing struggle to balance internal democracy with party cohesion.
With the political landscape rapidly shifting, the open confrontation raises fresh questions about whether ODM can contain its internal disputes or whether such clashes will continue to play out in full public view.