ODM Formally Exits Azimio, Announces Major Leadership Changes as Political Realignments Intensify

NAIROBI, KENYA -The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has formally exited the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition, marking a major turning point in Kenya's political landscape as parties reposition themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The withdrawal, which followed months of disagreements within the coalition, was confirmed by the Registrar of Political Parties in a communication dated June 11, 2026, bringing ODM's participation in the political alliance to an official close.

ODM had initiated the withdrawal process in February 2026, following a resolution by its National Executive Committee (NEC). The party cited alleged violations of the coalition's Deed of Agreement by some constituent parties, arguing that the disagreements threatened its independence, institutional integrity and strategic direction.

The party subsequently issued a formal 90-day withdrawal notice in March, setting in motion the legal and administrative process required to leave the coalition.

Leadership Changes and Internal Restructuring

The exit from Azimio comes alongside significant organisational changes within ODM as the party seeks to strengthen its leadership structures and prepare for the next electoral cycle.

Following the death of longtime party leader Raila Odinga in October 2025, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga assumed the party leadership, providing a new chapter for the movement that has dominated Kenya's opposition politics for years.

The party's current leadership structure includes Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga as National Chairperson, with Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and Kisii Governor Simba Arati serving as Deputy Party Leaders.

Catherine Omanyo is serving as Acting Secretary General, while the party continues to navigate internal administrative and political disagreements.

The changes reflect ODM's efforts to maintain organisational continuity while redefining its political strategy following the departure of its founding leader.

Fresh Disputes Emerge Within Nairobi County Assembly

ODM's internal restructuring has also extended to county-level leadership, with recent developments in the Nairobi City County Assembly attracting political and legal attention.

The party recently communicated changes to the Majority Party Whip's office, appointing Upper Savanna MCA Stazo Omung'ala Elijah Ang'ila to replace Kilimani MCA Moses Ogeto.

Imara Daima MCA Evans Okaru Nyangicha was appointed Deputy Majority Party Whip, while Catherine Apiyo Okoth was named the party's representative to the Nairobi City County Assembly Service Board.

However, the changes have encountered legal resistance.

On November 11, reports indicated that the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal had temporarily stopped the implementation of changes affecting two Nairobi County Assembly members associated with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and his Linda Mwananchi movement.

The tribunal's intervention preserves the contested positions pending further proceedings, with an inter partes hearing scheduled for November 23, 2026.

The dispute highlights growing tensions within the party over political allegiance, internal democracy and the authority of party leadership structures.

What ODM's Exit Means for Kenya's Opposition Politics

ODM's departure from Azimio has opened a new chapter in the country's opposition politics.

The coalition, which brought together several political parties ahead of the 2022 General Election, has undergone significant changes following internal disagreements, leadership transitions and the death of Raila Odinga.

Meanwhile, the remaining coalition leadership, under Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, has been pursuing a reorganisation of the alliance under the Ukombozi Alliance identity.

The emerging political formations are expected to play an important role in shaping negotiations, alliances and presidential ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.

ODM, on its part, is operating within the broad-based political arrangement associated with President William Ruto's administration, while positioning itself for the next electoral contest.

The Road Ahead

As Kenya moves closer to the 2027 General Election, ODM faces the challenge of maintaining party unity, managing competing political interests and strengthening its grassroots support.

The departure from Azimio may give the party greater freedom to pursue independent political negotiations, but internal disputes could complicate its efforts to present a united political front.

With new leadership structures, changing alliances and emerging political movements, the coming months will be critical in determining the direction of Kenya's political landscape.

For now, one thing is clear: ODM's exit from Azimio represents more than a change in coalition membership. It signals a wider political realignment that could significantly influence the battle for power in 2027.