Speaking exclusively to The Kenya Chronicle amid escalating internal tensions, Muluka emphasized that ODM's survival hinges on transcending family legacies and empowering young leaders, delivering a pointed message to Oburu:
"The Agwambo flame must not flicker out in nepotism hand over the baton to the warriors who will run the race."
Raila Odinga's untimely passing in early October 2025 has plunged ODM into a vortex of uncertainty, with the party once a bulwark of opposition politics now grappling with factionalism, defections, and whispers of external influence.
Appointed as acting party leader shortly after his brother's death, Oburu Odinga has been tasked with steering ODM through this transitional storm, but analysts like Muluka warn that rising rivalries could fracture the movement irreparably.
Muluka, a strategic communications consultant known for his unflinching critiques, painted a grim picture during a recent television appearance, echoing earlier sentiments from late October where he forecasted a "looming crisis" that could dismantle ODM just two decades after its founding.
"Leaders within ODM are not genuine in how they discuss the party's future without Raila," Muluka asserted.
There will be fallout the true warriors won't cave in; they'll migrate to other parties if the direction remains misguided."
He singled out opportunistic "parasites" within the ranks politicians who thrived under Odinga's patronage but are now cozying up to President William Ruto's administration as the primary threat.
The analyst's concerns have only intensified in recent weeks. Just days ago, reports emerged of Oburu forming an "inner circle" to counter rival factions, including challenges from Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Kisumu Woman Rep Lilian Gogo, and National Assembly Minority Whip Junet Mohamed.
Meanwhile, Raila's daughter, Winnie Odinga, has publicly questioned her uncle's suitability for long-term leadership, arguing at ODM's 20th anniversary celebrations that the party should not devolve into a "family project."
Her remarks, which sparked a swift rebuttal from Oburu "Tutaongea" (We will talk) have fueled speculation of a deepening schism.
Adding to the drama, fresh allegations surfaced today suggesting ODM heavyweights may be quietly backing Ida Odinga Raila's widow for a potential presidential bid in 2027, potentially sidelining Oburu in a snub that could exacerbate divisions.
Muluka dismissed such maneuvers as "short-sighted," warning that without a clear succession plan, ODM risks becoming a "mongrel of impunity" entangled in the broad-based government pact with Ruto's UDA.
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