Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has come under sharp criticism after his remarks about the future of ODM and the political legacy of Raila Odinga triggered anger within the party.
The comments have exposed growing divisions inside ODM, with many party supporters accusing Mbadi of disrespecting the sacrifices and influence Raila has carried for decades in Kenyan politics.
The controversy began during an ODM retreat in Mombasa where Mbadi reportedly stated that the party must prepare for a “post-Raila era” and insisted that ODM does not belong to one family. While some leaders viewed the remarks as part of a wider discussion about the future of the party, others interpreted them as a direct attack on the Odinga family and an attempt to weaken Raila’s political standing while he is still active in national affairs.
Ida Odinga responded firmly during an event attended by university leaders at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi. Without directly naming Mbadi, she defended her husband’s legacy and reminded leaders that political influence does not disappear simply because some individuals want to move on quickly. Her remarks carried a strong message that Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s democratic struggle cannot be ignored or reduced to internal succession politics.
Mbadi’s statements have also raised questions about loyalty within ODM, especially after several senior party figures joined President William Ruto’s government.
Critics now argue that some ODM leaders are using their new government positions to slowly distance themselves from Raila while positioning themselves for future control of the party.
Many supporters believe Mbadi crossed a political line by appearing to lecture ODM about moving beyond the very leader who built the party into a national movement. Raila’s supporters insist that ODM’s strength was created through years of political struggle, detention, public resistance, and personal sacrifice made by the former Prime Minister and his close allies. They argue that dismissive comments from leaders who benefited politically from Raila’s influence will only deepen mistrust within the party.
The backlash has not only come from Ida Odinga. Winnie Odinga also publicly criticized Mbadi, warning against using public office as a platform for internal political attacks. Ruth Odinga similarly accused Mbadi of undermining the very foundation that gave ODM national relevance.
The public disagreement now highlights the difficult transition ODM faces ahead of the 2027 elections. While younger leaders want to reshape the party and reduce dependence on one political figure, others believe there is a deliberate attempt to push Raila aside before a proper transition is agreed upon.
Mbadi’s remarks may have been intended to spark debate about ODM’s future, but they instead exposed deep anger, mistrust, and growing political tension within the party’s ranks.
