The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has stormed back into the national spotlight after sweeping all three parliamentary by-elections held on November 27, prompting the party’s new leader Oburu Oginga to rally members to “wake up, work and deliver.”

Speaking at the party headquarters in Nairobi on Tuesday, December 2, Oburu said the decisive victories in Ugunja, Magarini and Kasipul restored long-vacant seats and affirmed the resilience of ODM—even amid internal uncertainty following the death of former party leader Raila Odinga.

“These wins show our strength and the value of our partnership under the broad-based government arrangement,” Oburu said, flanked by the triumphant candidates. “This is not a time for us to sleep. It is time to work, to deliver, and to strengthen ODM.”

The Numbers Behind the Sweep

Ugunja: Moses Omondi clinched the seat with 9,447 votes, trouncing Wiper’s Orodi Odhiambo who managed 1,819. The constituency had remained without an MP since Opiyo Wandayi resigned in August to join President William Ruto’s Cabinet as CS for Cooperatives and MSMEs.

Magarini: Harrison Kombe made a dramatic comeback with 17,909 votes, beating Stanley Kenga of the Democracy for Citizens Party who polled 8,907. The seat was up for grabs after the Supreme Court nullified Kombe’s 2022 win citing ballot irregularities—ending an 18-month legal battle.

Kasipul: Boyd Were secured victory with 16,819 votes, defeating independent candidate Philip Aroko who garnered 8,476. The seat fell vacant after the tragic shooting of MP Charles Ong’ondo Were in April, an incident police termed a “targeted and premeditated assassination.”

Political Undertones Inside ODM
The by-election wins come at a delicate moment for ODM. The party has been grappling with internal friction over its cooperation with President Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA)—a relationship forged under Raila Odinga’s leadership.

Party Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino are among those who have publicly questioned the direction of this alliance.

But Oburu used the moment of victory to project unity and momentum, urging members to consolidate gains and refocus on service delivery.

“These victories should energise us,” he said. “We must show the country that ODM remains organized, strong and ready to lead.”

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