Speaking on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, Luo Council of Elders chairman Odungi Randa warned leaders from the region against engaging in public political battles, saying the rising tensions could weaken both the Luo community and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ahead of the 2027 General Election.
According to Randa, the increasing hostility among leaders risks creating unnecessary divisions that political opponents could exploit for strategic advantage.
“The enemy knows where and how to place traps and when to tighten the noose. Luo leadership is being targeted because it remains the heartbeat of the party and a major contender for political leadership in Kenya,” he stated.
The elder expressed concern that personal ambitions and factional politics were beginning to overshadow the unity that had kept the region politically influential for decades.
He warned that unless leaders exercise restraint and prioritize collective interests, the region could lose the political influence it has historically enjoyed under ODM and Raila’s leadership.
Randa further cautioned against the formation of rival camps within Luo politics, saying such divisions would only benefit opponents seeking to weaken the community’s bargaining power nationally.
“The community must reject all attempts to sever our bonds through competing camps, personal ambitions, and unnecessary political hostility. Let us clean up our politics,” he said.
His remarks come at a time when political temperatures are steadily rising within ODM and the broader opposition movement, with several leaders increasingly positioning themselves for influence ahead of 2027.
Political observers have noted growing ideological and strategic differences among some ODM leaders following Raila’s reduced direct involvement in active local politics.
The council chairman maintained that unity would remain critical if the region hopes to retain its influence in national political affairs.
He announced plans to convene a major consultative forum bringing together Luo leaders, professionals, elders, youth representatives and other stakeholders to deliberate on the future political direction of the region.
“We will set the agenda for a large consultative forum that will include leaders and stakeholders. Unity is strength, and discipline is power,” Randa stated.
Analysts believe the elders’ intervention reflects wider fears that internal competition among emerging political figures could gradually fragment the traditionally united Luo voting bloc.
The developments are also expected to intensify debate within ODM regarding succession politics and the future leadership structure of the party after Raila Odinga’s long dominance in opposition politics.
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