His remarks have stirred debate as they mirror a widening rift that exploded during ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa.
The anniversary weekend, meant to honour two decades of ODM’s journey, instead exposed sharp disagreements over the party’s future and its relationship with President William Ruto.
The tension grew stronger after Ruto made an unexpected appearance at the Founders’ Dinner, walking in at Sarova Whitesands alongside key allies.
Ruto addressed the gathering briefly and reminded members that he was among the founders of the movement. He also pledged funds to support youth attendance.
While some members applauded his gesture, many felt uneasy, saying Ruto’s visit blurred the line between government and opposition.
Earlier that day, Edwin Sifuna had warned that ODM still carried painful memories of the 2023 protests, insisting the party would not soften its stance.
He praised young leaders like Babu Owino and Dr Joyce Osogo, saying they had the energy to lead the next political fight.
Winnie Odinga also raised concern, accusing some ODM members of embracing Ruto at the expense of the party’s core values.
She pushed for a National Delegates Convention to decide whether ODM should leave the broad-based government arrangement.
Her call was met with resistance from older leaders, including Dr Oburu, who argued that dialogue with the president was necessary.
Babu Owino, who felt sidelined during the event, criticised the celebrations online.
He said the party had abandoned its principles and warned that ODM risked losing its identity if it did not stand firm.
Supporters of the broad-based partnership defended their approach. Leaders like Hassan Joho said Ruto’s presence was justified because of his history with ODM.
They insisted the party needed unity and maturity as it heads toward the next election cycle.
The tensions seen in Mombasa and highlighted by Khalwale have raised questions about ODM’s stability.
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