ODM Clarifies Appointing Babu Owino as Secretary General

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has dismissed as fake a widely circulated notice purported to be convening a Special National Delegates Conference (NDC) scheduled for March 27, 2026.

The document, which appeared styled as a newspaper publication in the Daily Nation, outlined a detailed agenda including key leadership changes within the party.

The notice claimed that the meeting would deliberate on several resolutions, including “the endorsement of Hon. Babu Owino as a candidate for the position of Secretary General of the Party” and the creation of a new position to accommodate Winnie Odinga.

It further indicated that the document had been signed by Oburu Oginga in his capacity as Party Leader.

However, ODM has categorically rejected the authenticity of the document, warning members and the public against misinformation circulating on social and digital platforms.

In a strongly worded rebuttal, the party stated: “Why this is FAKE: The Party Leader does not sign NOTICES OF NDC/SDC or any other meeting of party.”

The party further emphasized procedural inconsistencies in the alleged notice, noting that such a high-level meeting could not legally be convened within the stated timeframe.

ODM clarified: “A NOTICE of a meeting of such a magnitude canNOT be under 21 days.”

Procedural Irregularities Cited

Moreover, ODM emphasized that their constitution is very clear on the requirements for calling a meeting for a national delegates’ meeting.

There are certain requirements that must be met in terms of a notice period and who can sign such a document.

In this case, ODM claimed that the notice they received did not meet constitutional requirements and was a major cause for alarm for them.

Moreover, ODM was skeptical about the publication itself.

They noticed certain discrepancies in what they claimed was a media source.

In fact, they claimed that, “The Daily Nation Newspaper has no record of publishing the purported notice.”

Also Read: FACT CHECK: Has ODM Picked Babu Owino to Replace Sifuna as Secretary‑General?

Leadership Appointments Disputed

The crux of the dispute was the claim that Babu Owino had been endorsed for the powerful Secretary General position.

The ODM Party was quick to dispute this claim, stating that no such decision was made via its structures.

The sources within the ODM Party indicate that leadership appointments of this nature require extensive consultations, approval via the National Executive Committee, and communication via the relevant channels.

Also Read: ODM Announces Members to Attend Special Delegates Convention

Warning Against Misinformation

ODM ended its statement with a warning, declaring the document “FAKE on arrival.”

The party encouraged its members to acquire party-related information from official communication channels.

The case is a reflection of the rising concerns about political misinformation, especially as the parties undergo restructuring processes.

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The alleged fake publication by Nation Newspaper indicating that Babu Owino has been proposed to take over ODM’s party SG role amongst other individuals mentioned. PHOTO/ File