Robert Alai Slams ODM for Allowing Winnie Odinga to Speak at NDC: “Not Family Inheritance”

Robert Alai Slams ODM for Allowing Winnie Odinga to Speak at NDC: “Not Family Inheritance”

A fresh political storm has erupted within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following sharp criticism from Robert Alai over the participation of Winnie Odinga at the party’s recent Special National Delegates Conference (NDC).

The high-profile gathering, held at Nairobi’s Jamhuri Grounds on Friday, March 27, brought together party leaders and delegates amid ongoing internal tensions following the death of ODM’s founding leader, Raila Odinga.

While the event showcased renewed calls for party reforms, it has since sparked debate over inclusivity, leadership structure, and allegations of favoritism.

Winnie Odinga, an East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) lawmaker, delivered a speech calling for sweeping reforms within the party. She urged ODM to embrace openness, youth participation, and decentralised leadership structures.

“When we talk about the new ODM that we envision, we want a party that opens doors and not closes them… We want participation as young people that extends beyond rallies… We want to hold our leaders accountable,” she stated during her address.

Her remarks were widely seen as a push to reposition the party amid generational shifts and internal dissent. However, her appearance at the event has drawn criticism from within ODM ranks, most notably from Alai, the Kileleshwa Ward MCA.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, March 30, Alai questioned the basis upon which Winnie was allowed to address the conference, arguing that her platform risked creating the perception of dynastic politics within the party.

“Why was she speaking at the Special NDC? Because she is a daughter to Baba Raila Odinga or because she has what position? Look here, ODM is not part of family inheritance,” Alai said.

He further emphasised that ODM is a collective political entity owned by its members and supported by public contributions, warning against any actions that could undermine its democratic foundation.

“ODM is a political party owned by the members equally and funded by all Kenyans. Anyone believing that the Raila family should get preferential treatment is deluded and disrespectful to all other members,” he added.

The remarks highlight deepening divisions within the party, which has in recent weeks witnessed parallel activities and competing factions. A section of dissenting leaders, including Edwin Sifuna, have raised concerns about internal governance and decision-making processes.

Winnie Odinga’s alignment with reformist voices within ODM has also drawn attention. She recently appeared alongside Sifuna during a press briefing where he defended his position within the party and vowed to challenge attempts to sideline him.

Meanwhile, allies of Oburu Oginga have reportedly called on Winnie to reconsider her political alliances, urging her to support efforts aimed at stabilising the party leadership.

Political analysts note that the unfolding dispute reflects a broader struggle within ODM as it transitions following the loss of its long-time leader. The debate over leadership, inclusivity, and generational change is expected to shape the party’s direction ahead of future elections.

Despite the criticism, Winnie’s speech has resonated with sections of the youth and reform advocates, who see her message as a call for renewal within one of Kenya’s most influential political parties.

As tensions continue to simmer, ODM faces the challenge of balancing internal democracy with unity, while addressing concerns raised by both established leaders and emerging voices within its ranks.

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Robert Alai Slams ODM for Allowing Winnie Odinga to Speak at NDC: “Not Family Inheritance”