President William Ruto hosted the event with the usual ceremony, but what caught the eye of the nation was the near-empty section reserved for ODM leaders.
Instead of a full delegation, only veteran politician Oburu Oginga walked in, creating an image that raised more questions than answers.
Political insiders now confirm that the absence of ODM’s top figures was no coincidence.
It was a quiet, calculated move—a silent protest meant to express discomfort over what some members believe is an encroachment by State House into the opposition’s internal affairs.
By staying away, these leaders sent a subtle but powerful signal of dissatisfaction without publicly declaring confrontation.
Their no-show has reawakened suspicions of a widening rift within ODM, especially at a time when new political formations are emerging after recent by-elections.
As the dust settles, analysts say the boycott has exposed growing tension inside the party.
A clear division appears to be forming between those who view engagement with State House as a smart political strategy and those who fear such interactions weaken ODM’s identity and dilute its command structure.
For a party long regarded as disciplined and unified, this quiet resistance marks a significant shift and has left supporters wondering whether ODM is entering a period of deeper internal struggle.
Oburu Oginga’s lonely appearance added emotional weight to the moment. He looked like a man caught in the middle—trying to maintain diplomatic ties while dealing with quiet rebellion from within his own party.
His presence, contrasted with the empty seats behind him, sparked intense debate across the country, with many questioning whether ODM’s centre of power is shifting and whether Raila Odinga’s influence is being quietly challenged.
For long-time followers of the party, this episode has reopened old concerns about internal cohesion and leadership direction.
The tension is particularly worrying for regions already showing signs of political restlessness, where questions about ODM’s future have begun resurfacing.
Many believe this boycott could shape upcoming conversations about party restructuring and succession battles as the 2027 elections draw nearer.
The silence from ODM leaders at State House has become louder than any official statement.
It has revived critical debates about loyalty, identity, and the direction the party must take in a rapidly changing political environment.
Whether this moment leads to reconciliation or marks the beginning of a deeper realignment remains to be seen.
What is clear is that ODM is facing one of its most delicate moments in recent years, and the absence that sparked the conversation may ultimately determine the party’s next chapter.
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Politics