The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has launched a spirited campaign to reclaim its stronghold in Western Kenya, with party veteran Oburu Oginga leading the charge. Dubbed "Linda Ground" (Guard the Base), the tour is a strategic move to steady the ship following the death of party founder Raila Odinga.

The Orange party is facing an existential crisis. Without the magnetic pull of Raila, fissures have emerged, with rivals circling to poach its voter base. Oburu, stepping into the colossal shoes of his brother, is on a mission to prove that ODM remains the dominant political force in the region.

The Mulembe Strategy

The tour kicks off this weekend with high-stakes rallies:

• Saturday, Jan 17: Malaba, Busia County—a critical border town where UDA has been making inroads.
• Sunday, Jan 18: Kakamega Town—the heart of the Luhya vote, traditionally loyal but increasingly restive.

Steadying the Base

For Oburu, this is not just about rallies; it is about survival. The "Linda Ground" initiative is a direct response to the Kamkunji declaration, signaling that the party leadership is awake to the threat of irrelevance. "We are here to stay," Oburu declared. Whether the voters agree without "Baba" on the ballot remains the ultimate test.