Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Dr. Oburu Odinga is under siege as a petition has been filed challenging his current position as the chair.

In a petition filed by Rachel Tabitha on November 18th, 2025, she demands the resignation of Oburu and restoration of internal democracy.

She directed her petition to the ODM National Elections Board (NEB).

“We, the undersigned Life Members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), led by Hon. Rachael Tabitha, submit this petition in exercise of our rights as loyal, dedicated, and constitutionally recognized as life members of the party,” read part notice.

According to Tabitha, ODM has been grounded in the ideals of constitutionalism, internal democracy, transparency, accountability, rule of law, and protection of members’ rights since its formation.

The values inside the ODM Constitution reflect the legacy of the former party leader, the late Raila Odinga.

What Made the Petition Filed

Rachel noted that actions and decisions attributed to Oburu and other small groups of individuals undermine the principles ODM has defended for decades.

“The deliberate disregard for due process, violation of internal democratic procedures, and failure to respect the rights of life members signal a dangerous departure from the constitutional order of the party,” read part notice.

She also said some leaders in the party speak with pride and declare that they are legitimately in office, which violates Article 6.2.2 (b) of the party’s constitution.

Such defiance undermines the very principles of accountability, fairness, and respect for due process that our party stands for.

ODM is historically championed.

She added, “ODM was built on the belief that ‘the safeguarding, and following the constitution and the rule of law.”

Today, many loyal members feel excluded, ignored, and sidelined in the party.

Also Read:ODM Issues Clarification After Leadership Changes

What are the Demands Inside the Petition

She emphasized that because the ODM Constitution and principles of good governance have been violated therefore they demand the following;

1. Immediate Resignation of Oburu Odinga

From any party leadership positions he currently occupies, for violating internal democratic norms and undermining party cohesion.

2. Convening of an Urgent National Delegates Convention (NDC)

To deliberate on the current governance crisis, restore legitimacy to party structures, and reaffirm ODM’s constitutional values.

3. Full Respect and Recognition of Life Members and All ODM Members

Including adherence to their constitutional rights, participation in party decision-making, and protection from exclusionary practices.

Also Read:ODM Confirms Oburu Oginga as Party Leader

Message Towards the National Elections Board

She warned that if nothing changes within 30 days of the notice, they will resign from the party.v

“If the above actions are not undertaken within thirty (30) days from the date of this petition, we, the undersigned Life Members of ODM, shall tender our resignation from the party, as a matter of principle, in protest under The Raila school of thought against the ongoing violation of constitutional order,” read the part notice.

Additionally, she concluded that ODM is more than an institution and it is a movement built on sacrifice, struggle, and an unyielding quest for justice and democracy.

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Petition notice seeking Oburu Odinga to resign as ODM chair. PHOTO/ File