A political scramble has erupted within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as members vie for key minority leadership positions in the National Assembly following the recent departure of prominent figures to government roles. 

This reshuffling has left crucial positions such as the nominated MP, Minority Leader, and Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee open for contention.

The departure of John Mbadi and Opiyo Wandayi, who have taken up government roles, has intensified the competition within ODM. 

Mbadi’s positions as the nominated MP and Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee, alongside Wandayi's Minority Leader role, are now the focus of heated debates and strategic manoeuvring among ODM members.

Mbita MP Millie Odhiambo has been vocal about her aspirations, stating unequivocally that she does not want to be anybody’s deputy. 

"For clarity, I do not want any deputy leadership position in Parliament. I have declared an interest in minority leadership. I have not changed," Odhiambo said on the floor of the House. 

The vocal Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, known for his bold political moves, has also thrown his hat into the ring.

When the 13th Parliament was formed, the same scramble for House position was witnessed when Babu expressed his intention to be the chair of the Public Appoints Committee but the party gave the position to John Mbadi.

"Yes, I wanted to be the chairperson but now I am more than qualified for the position," Babu told a press briefing on Thursday, July 25.

Nyando MP Jared Okello has presented a compelling case for the candidacy of Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo, saying he is a stickler to ODM principles and therefore is suitable to be the party’s leader.

"Otiende has undivided attention to the principles of ODM, he has been around now for seven years and that is enough time to steer the minority side. Otiende and I also enjoy a cordial relationship with our colleagues in the National Assembly, so we have what it takes," Okello asserted. 

Okello further highlighted the importance of equitable representation among the Luo Nyanza counties, noting that Siaya and Homa Bay already have significant representation.

The scramble for positions by ODM members has come when the party is in a precarious situation as leaders express divergent opinions.

Some leaders who held important party roles were nominated as Cabinet Secretaries in the ruling Kenya Kwanza government, sparking an outage within the party.