Millie Odhiambo Lectures Robert Alai Over Attack on Winnie Odinga During ODM@20 Event

Millie Odhiambo Lectures Robert Alai Over Attack on Winnie Odinga During ODM@20 Event

The Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa on Saturday were marked by sharp exchanges among party leaders, after Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo confronted Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai over his remarks targeting Winnie Odinga, daughter of the late party leader Raila Odinga.

The confrontation followed Alai’s criticism of Winnie’s political experience and influence within ODM, after she delivered a speech at the anniversary event. Alai questioned why senior party members allowed her to “lecture” them, sparking outrage among some leaders and supporters.

Millie Odhiambo’s Response

Millie Odhiambo, a vocal defender of women’s rights in politics, issued a stern warning to Alai, accusing him of disrespecting female leaders and undermining Winnie Odinga’s role in the party.

“Before I finish, I would like to warn the person who attacked Winnie Odinga. I am a defender of women, and I want to say this, Alai, you like harassing women, but where Millie is, we will deal with you head‑on,” Odhiambo declared

She went on to describe Winnie as a central figure in the Odinga family, insisting that she deserved respect.

“Winnie is the heart of Baba. It is uncouth and uncultured to attack her barely a month after she lost her father,” Odhiambo added.

The MP criticised the timing of Alai’s comments, calling them insensitive given the Odinga family was still mourning Raila’s passing.

Escalation on Social Media

The dispute quickly spilled onto social media, where Alai linked certain leaders to Winnie’s earlier allegations that some ODM members were secretly plotting to “sell the party.” His remarks reignited debate over internal divisions within ODM, with supporters and leaders taking sides in the online exchanges.

In a rejoinder, Odhiambo accused Alai of implicitly attacking other female leaders, including Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga.

“Robert Alai, you are used to attacking women and getting away with it… Winnie did not attack Governor Gladys Wanga. You are in fact implicitly attacking Wanga,” she wrote.

“It is exactly one month since Winnie lost her dad. It is uncouth and uncultured to attack her… Bring it on. I am waiting,” Odhiambo added.

Wider Party Tensions

The altercation came amid growing tensions within ODM as leaders gathered at the coast to mark two decades of the party’s existence. The anniversary event, intended to celebrate ODM’s legacy, instead exposed cracks in the party’s unity.

In a separate incident, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino openly questioned why he had been overlooked for a leadership position in the party, despite his vocal support and activism. Owino’s remarks added to the perception of internal discontent following the confirmation of Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga as ODM’s new party leader.

Conclusion

The exchanges between Millie Odhiambo and Robert Alai highlight the challenges ODM faces in managing succession politics and maintaining cohesion after Raila Odinga’s death. While Odhiambo defended Winnie Odinga’s role and legacy, Alai’s criticism underscored the skepticism among some members about her influence in the party.

As ODM marks its 20th anniversary, the heated debates reflect both the passion and divisions within the party, raising questions about how it will navigate leadership transitions and prepare for the 2027 General Election.

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Millie Odhiambo Lectures Robert Alai Over Attack on Winnie Odinga During ODM@20 Event