ODM Kisumu rally draws thousands of supporters as party moves to solidify base

Thousands of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) supporters thronged Kirembe Grounds on Sunday, turning the venue into a sea of party colours in what has been billed as the “mother of all rallies” as the party seeks to reinforce its political grip on the wider Luo Nyanza region.

From early morning, streams of supporters from Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori and neighbouring counties poured into the grounds, waving flags, blowing vuvuzelas and chanting party slogans.

Supporters from different regions will assemble at designated points before proceeding to Keremba Grounds.

Those coming from across River Nyando and neighbouring areas gathered at Katito, supporters from Kisumu City and surrounding areas will assemble at Kondele, while those travelling from Siaya County and western parts of the region will meet at Ojolla before converging at the main venue.

The grounds quickly filled as musicians and local performers kept the growing crowd entertained, setting the tone for a high-energy political gathering.

The rally comes at a politically sensitive moment for the party, coming in the wake of a leadership transition following the death of long-time party leader Raila Odinga from frontline leadership.

Party officials say the meeting is meant to reaffirm unity and refocus the party’s grassroots structures amid emerging internal divisions.

Speakers are expected to rally supporters around unity and discipline within the party as it recalibrates its political strategy in the region.

The event is also seen as an attempt to send a clear message of dominance in Luo Nyanza politics ahead of future electoral realignments.

ODM Party Chairperson Gladys Wanga and party Leader Oburu Odinga are set to headline the gathering, with their addresses expected to focus on reconciliation, mobilisation and strengthening the party’s grassroots structures.

Their presence has been widely billed as central to efforts to steady the party and reinforce internal cohesion.

Supporters were still streaming into the venue before the official speeches began.