Siaya senate aspirant Sammy Weya has sharply criticised Senator Oburu Oginga’s leadership, arguing that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) requires generational renewal if it is to remain a relevant national political force.
Weya, a former Alego Usonga MP, said the party is facing a defining moment and risks losing its national appeal unless it embraces younger leaders and fresh ideas.
He pointed out that leading a party founded and nurtured by Raila Odinga demands constant engagement, strategic coordination, and nationwide mobilisation.
In a statement on Wednesday, Weya said these are qualities that can no longer be effectively delivered under Oburu’s stewardship.
“It is becoming increasingly clear that Dr. Oburu cannot effectively steer ODM as a modern national political party operating in today’s highly competitive political environment,” he stated.
He further claimed that ODM has increasingly concentrated its efforts on consolidating support in Nyanza while neglecting other regions where Raila spent decades building political goodwill.
The trend risks transforming the party from a national reform movement into a regional political vehicle.
Weya argued that contemporary politics requires leaders who can effectively engage young voters through digital platforms, respond swiftly to emerging political developments, and rebuild party structures across the country.
“The uncomfortable reality is that age is no longer on Oburu’s side,” he said, adding that ODM’s next generation of leaders must possess the stamina and energy required to operate in an increasingly fast-paced political environment.
The senatorial aspirant also questioned Oburu’s recent declaration that he intends to defend his Siaya Senate seat, interpreting the move as a sign of uncertainty over the party’s future political prospects.
Weya, who hails from the Lake Kanyaboli peninsula, further criticised what he described as a growing tendency within ODM to nominate senior politicians to key positions that could otherwise provide opportunities for younger and marginalised leaders.
His remarks come amid ongoing debate over ODM’s succession politics following recent comments by Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, who urged the party to continue organising and positioning itself as a national movement.
The race for the Siaya Senate seat is also attracting interest from a number of youthful politicians.
Among those who have declared their intentions are Nick Ongoro, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Thuon Gweno Foundation, and Jaramogi Walter Okello, a senior administrator in the office of Governor James Orengo.
Sources familiar with the developing contest have also indicated that JT Okinda, who unsuccessfully challenged Oburu in the 2022 election, is preparing another bid for the seat.
Former Siaya Governor Cornel Rasanga has likewise publicly expressed interest in joining the race, setting the stage for what is shaping up to be a highly competitive contest ahead of the next general election.
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