ODM youth league stands firm, dismisses claims of post-Raila infighting

Led by Hamza Kombo, they say party founders and structure in place are meant to streamline any communication and handle any arising issues.

by BRIAN OTIENO

Coast03 December 2025 - 11:10

In Summary

The leaders stressed that perceived rebellion since Raila Odinga’s death is merely internal democracy, and the party continues to support youth leadership
They cited the campaign success of Boyd Were in Kasipul as evidence of ODM’s commitment to young leaders.

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ODM Youth League leaders in Mombasa have called for respect for the party’s structures and leadership, warning that internal rebellion could threaten the political outfit if mishandled.

Led by Hamza Kombo, the youth leaders emphasised that party founders and existing structures are in place to streamline communication and address arising issues.

They hailed ODM co-founder Hassan Joho and deputy party leader Abdulswamad Nassir for their decisive victories in the Magarini by-election, saying their leadership deserves respect.

“The friction in the party is a sign of internal democracy. ODM remains a powerhouse, and naysayers must show respect,” Kombo said at Uhuru Garden in Mombasa during celebrations of the November 27 by-election wins.

Treasurer Hassan Mbangwe said the party demonstrated its strength, particularly in Magarini, where Harrison Kombe beat Democracy for Citizens Party Stanley Kenga by 9,001 votes, compared to a margin of 21 votes in the 2022 general election.

He added that victories in Ugunja and Kasipul reaffirmed Kenyans’ confidence in ODM.

The leaders stressed that perceived rebellion since Raila Odinga’s death is merely internal democracy, and the party continues to support youth leadership.

They cited the campaign success of Boyd Were in Kasipul as evidence of ODM’s commitment to young leaders.

The Mombasa Youth League praised the coastal leadership—including Joho, Nassir, and Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro—for running a coordinated campaign in Magarini.

They also lauded President William Ruto for respecting ODM strongholds by not fielding UDA candidates, noting that such cooperation strengthens democracy and national unity.

“Baba Raila’s legacy lives on. We, the youth, are standing firm,” Mbangwe said. Kombo added that internal democracy should not be mistaken for infighting, emphasising full support for the current leadership.

ODM Youth League secretary Ali Athman and subcounty chairperson Valentina Riziki urged more young people to join the party, highlighting ODM’s inclusive approach and faith in youth leadership.