ODM leader Raila Odinga is set to preside over a crucial party meeting on Friday, August 9, 2024, where he will unveil a new leadership lineup to fill various vacant positions within the party. The Central Management Committee meeting comes at a critical juncture for ODM, which is currently experiencing internal strife as leaders vie for prominent roles.

Leadership Vacancies and Internal Conflicts

The upcoming meeting is expected to address the intense competition among ODM leaders for top positions. Key regions that form Raila’s core support bases are involved in fierce contention for influential roles, including the deputy party leader positions. This internal struggle highlights the broader challenge of maintaining unity within the party amid leadership changes.

Contenders for Deputy Party Leader Positions

Current Deputy Party Leaders, Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, have recently been appointed as Cabinet Secretaries for Mining and Blue Economy, and Cooperatives and SMEs Development, respectively. Their vacancies have sparked a scramble among potential successors, with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir emerging as frontrunners. Additionally, Governors Simba Arati of Kisii and Gideon Mung’aro of Kilifi are also vying for these prominent positions.

Regional Dynamics and Party Balance

The appointment of new deputy leaders is a delicate matter, with internal divisions emerging over regional balance. Raila has indicated that neither of the deputy posts will be allocated to the Kisii and Nyamira regions, despite Arati’s bid. Instead, Raila seems focused on appointing leaders from Western Kenya and the Coast, aligning with the geographical balance strategy.

Potential New Leadership Roles

In the ongoing reorganization, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi is a potential candidate for the Secretary-General position, should Sifuna be promoted to one of the deputy roles. This change is part of a broader proposal to ensure a smooth transition as ODM integrates new members into the government.

Filling the Chairperson Position

The meeting will also address the vacant chairperson position left by John Mbadi’s appointment to the Cabinet. Sources suggest that Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga might be a candidate for this role, with discussions also including Senator Moses Kajwang’ and Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko.

Focus on Gender Representation

Recent pressure from women leaders has emphasized the need for gender representation in ODM’s top echelons. This push for inclusion highlights the ongoing debate over balancing party leadership roles and ensuring diverse representation within the party’s decision-making processes.