The long-standing schism within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has now extended into the party’s entertainment sector, as the two warring factions restructure their DJ units and redefine their musical approaches.
DJ Spider, a veteran entertainer who has energized Raila Odinga-led rallies for nearly a decade, has confirmed that he is no longer part of the Oburu Oginga-aligned ODM faction. Speaking exclusively to Citizen Digital, Spider stated that he has officially joined Edwin Sifuna’s Linda Mwananchi group.
“I had been away from Linda Ground for long. I didn’t play at the Homa Bay rallies or elsewhere. It suddenly became an issue after I joined Edwin Sifuna in Busia. I’m fully affiliated with the Linda Mwananchi team. I’m 100% Sifunated!” he declared.
The issue gained viral attention after Oburu Oginga was caught on video apparently searching for a DJ during a party event, famously asking, “DJ hakuna?” (There is no DJ?). The clip quickly circulated on TikTok, prompting a wave of memes and jokes among Kenyans online.
To calm rumours of DJ absence, ODM Secretary General and Busia County Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo posted photos of the new DJ unit serving the Linda Ground faction.
“Tuko na DJ,” Omanyo wrote, introducing DJ Ibra and DJ Pinto Cahil as the new team.
While the move is intended to signal continuity, many party supporters voiced scepticism on social media. Comments mocked the new DJs and called for the return of DJ Spider:
“We want Raila Odinga’s DJ. Not these unknown rookies. Hawa wanakaa DJ wa disco matanga. You need to bring back DJ Spider to energize your dying outfit,” one user wrote.
Sifuna has publicly acknowledged DJ Spider’s role in his faction’s campaigns, highlighting that Spider’s affiliation was voluntary and driven by commitment rather than monetary gain.
“The DJ came with us, you know, we never steal because we are not thieves. It was his own decision to join us. We never pay, so if they decide to give him a good amount, then he will do the work,” Sifuna explained.
The Linda Mwananchi faction represents a distinct voice within ODM, often challenging central leadership decisions and appealing directly to ordinary citizens, contrasting with the Linda Ground wing aligned with Oburu Oginga and Gladys Wanga.
Music and DJs have historically played a key role at ODM events, energizing supporters and providing a backdrop for major announcements and declarations. With DJ Spider now aligned with Sifuna’s group, the battle for influence within ODM extends beyond politics into the realm of entertainment.
