Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has urged members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to resolve their internal differences through dialogue, warning that public divisions could weaken the party at a critical political moment.
Speaking on Wednesday, December 25, 2025, Nassir acknowledged that differing opinions have emerged within ODM over leadership and strategy but maintained that the party remains strong enough to overcome internal disagreements. He expressed confidence that ODM would disappoint critics who are eager to see it fragment.
The governor called on party leaders and members to adopt a constructive approach when handling disputes, stressing that open engagement is healthier than silent dissent or public confrontations.
“We will not allow our party to be weakened from within,” Nassir said.
“ODM belongs to its members, and leaders have a responsibility to protect their interests and act in the best interests of the country. If there are differing views or proposals, they should be presented openly and constructively.”
Nassir emphasised that leadership demands honesty, courage and accountability, arguing that suppressing debate or engaging in behind-the-scenes manoeuvres only fuels mistrust.
Nassir emphasised that leadership demands honesty, courage and accountability, arguing that suppressing debate or engaging in behind-the-scenes manoeuvres only fuels mistrust.
He said ODM’s long history in Kenyan politics has been shaped by open debate and resilience, qualities he believes will help the party weather the current storm.
The Mombasa governor, who has been vocal in support of ODM’s continued participation in the broad-based government, reiterated that the party has no plans to exit the arrangement with Kenya Kwanza.
According reminding critics that political influence is not only exercised from opposition benches. According to Nassir, ODM can still shape the country’s future while remaining part of government.
“In 2027, we will redeem this country while inside government,” he said.
The Mombasa governor, who has been vocal in support of ODM’s continued participation in the broad-based government, reiterated that the party has no plans to exit the arrangement with Kenya Kwanza.
According reminding critics that political influence is not only exercised from opposition benches. According to Nassir, ODM can still shape the country’s future while remaining part of government.
“In 2027, we will redeem this country while inside government,” he said.
“Soon, we will give direction on the path we will take. Those calling for talks with Ruto’s government ahead of the next elections should understand that we cannot remain in opposition forever.”
His remarks come at a time when ODM members are sharply divided over whether the party should distance itself from the current administration or continue engaging from within.
His remarks come at a time when ODM members are sharply divided over whether the party should distance itself from the current administration or continue engaging from within.
Some leaders have argued that staying in government risks diluting the party’s identity, while others see it as a strategic move that allows ODM to influence policy and governance.
Nassir’s comments closely follow a warning by ODM party leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, who cautioned against mixed messaging within the party.
Speaking earlier this week, Oburu stressed that while debate is welcome during consultations, ODM leaders must speak with one voice once a collective decision has been reached. He noted that public contradictions only confuse supporters and weaken the party’s position.
“I am a consultative leader,” Oburu said.
Nassir’s comments closely follow a warning by ODM party leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, who cautioned against mixed messaging within the party.
Speaking earlier this week, Oburu stressed that while debate is welcome during consultations, ODM leaders must speak with one voice once a collective decision has been reached. He noted that public contradictions only confuse supporters and weaken the party’s position.
“I am a consultative leader,” Oburu said.
“We discuss issues and agree together. But once we agree on a policy or direction, everyone must speak that language.”
Oburu, who assumed party leadership following the death of Raila Odinga, made it clear that unity does not mean silencing opinions, but respecting collective decisions once consensus has been achieved.
Political analysts view the current debate as a test of ODM’s internal democracy and leadership maturity, especially as the party adjusts to life without its long-time leader.
Oburu, who assumed party leadership following the death of Raila Odinga, made it clear that unity does not mean silencing opinions, but respecting collective decisions once consensus has been achieved.
Political analysts view the current debate as a test of ODM’s internal democracy and leadership maturity, especially as the party adjusts to life without its long-time leader.
With the 2027 General Election approaching, how ODM manages its internal differences could significantly shape its electoral fortunes.
For Nassir, the solution lies in honest conversation and disciplined leadership.
“Disagreements are not a sign of weakness,” he said.
For Nassir, the solution lies in honest conversation and disciplined leadership.
“Disagreements are not a sign of weakness,” he said.
“How we handle them determines whether we emerge stronger or divided.”
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