This push comes amid ongoing factionalism, with Owino positioning himself as the natural successor, famously stating, "Baada ya Baba ni Babu" (After Baba, it's Babu), and warning that without his leadership, the party will remain in chaos.
Owino's demand for an NDC follows a high-level meeting in Nairobi with ODM figures including Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Ruth Odinga, and MP Millie Odhiambo, where discussions centered on the party's future direction.
An Infotrak poll has bolstered his ambitions, showing him as the most influential leader in Luo Nyanza with 33% support, far ahead of acting party leader Oburu Oginga at 10%, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga at 7%, and Siaya Governor James Orengo at 4%.
Owino's camp is reportedly aligned with former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who is said to back Dr. Fred Matiang'i's potential 2027 presidential bid through the Jubilee Party, though Kenyatta has denied these claims.
Meanwhile, Coast leaders have threatened to bolt if Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho isn't elevated to party leader, adding to the fragmentation.
Peter Kaluma, a vocal ODM stalwart and supporter of the party's alignment with President William Ruto's administration, has not issued a direct public response to Owino's January 8 statement as of early January 9, 2026.
However, his recent actions and statements signal strong opposition to such moves that could disrupt the status quo.
On December 31, 2025, Kaluma publicly urged Oburu Oginga whom he recognizes as the legitimate party leader to convene a meeting of ODM's relevant organs to "kick out the Gachagua men contradicting Baba [Raila Odinga] barely 3 months since he rested."
This call for party discipline appears targeted at figures like Owino, whom Kaluma has previously accused of flirting with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's Democratic Citizens Party (DCP).
@TheODMparty is a DEEP SEA, not a waterfall. As the largest party with members across Kenya, ODM has stood strong for the past 20 years because its institutions are strong and respected by all members.
— Hon. George Peter Kaluma (Commentaries) (@gpdkaluma) January 8, 2026
Let's maintain the respect and defer to the Party's offices/organs. pic.twitter.com/irldAVUKA7
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