ODM Faces Internal Strife as Coast Leaders Defend Hassan Joho’s Role
Mombasa, November 15, 2025 – The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is grappling with internal tensions as Coast leaders rallied to defend Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho’s influence in the party, warning that sidelining him in the post-Raila Odinga reorganisation could deepen divisions. Speaking at ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa, Joho’s allies stressed that any discussions about the party’s future—whether to remain in government or return to opposition—must recognize the leadership role Raila Odinga entrusted to Joho.
Key figures at the event, including Mvita MP Mohamed Soud Machele, Likoni MP Mishi Mboko, and Mombasa Woman Representative Zamzam Mohamed, criticized party members they accused of attempting to push Joho to the margins. He did not place himself in government; Raila Odinga positioned him there, Machele said. Joho himself issued a stern warning, underscoring his commitment to ODM and cautioning that any attempt to undermine his role would be met with resistance. The gathering highlighted deepening fault lines within the party over how to interpret Raila’s legacy and his final political instructions.
Reactions from other factions of ODM indicate a broader debate about the party’s direction. Leaders such as Winnie Odinga, James Orengo, and Edwin Sifuna are calling for a National Delegates Convention to let party members independently determine ODM’s future, signaling friction with those favoring continued alignment with the government. Coast MPs argue that Joho’s leadership has been pivotal in maintaining ODM’s stronghold in the region for over two decades, emphasizing that his political influence is key to preserving party unity ahead of upcoming elections, including the Magarini by-election.
Looking ahead, ODM faces a delicate balancing act. With the 2027 general elections approaching, the party must reconcile competing factions to avoid a split that could weaken its national presence. The coming months are likely to test whether Joho’s allies can maintain cohesion within the party while navigating the complex legacy left by Raila Odinga, as ODM seeks to remain relevant both on the Coast and across Kenya.