ODM Party Faces Internal Divisions Over Government and Ruto’s Re-election Bid
The ODM party is experiencing ongoing internal conflicts as different factions continue to hold opposing views on the broad-based government and President William Ruto’s potential re-election bid. These tensions have been highlighted by recent statements from key party figures, who are urging caution and adherence to official party positions.
Deputy party leader Godfrey Osotsi has publicly criticized ODM lawmakers who have expressed support for Ruto, specifically naming Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor (Jalang’o) and Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo. This criticism came during an ADC church service in Vihiga on Sunday, November 2. Osotsi emphasized that the party has not officially endorsed Ruto for the 2027 elections and described the MPs’ declarations as politically motivated rather than legitimate.
He pointed out that any decision regarding Ruto’s support must be made through the party’s central committee. Osotsi also called on President Ruto to engage with ODM through its formal structures rather than individual MPs. “I want to ask the president to be careful with some of these MPs. The party adopted a position last week to support the broad-based government, and that our party has structures. These MPs do not represent the party,” he said.
Osotsi further noted that Jalang’o and Odhiambo were expelled from ODM, reinforcing his argument that their public support for Ruto does not reflect the party’s stance. He urged the president to address ODM through its official channels, stating, “We have no problem with the broad-based government, but MPs must adhere to the official position.”
Alignment with Party Leadership
Osotsi’s comments align with those of ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, who has consistently maintained that the party is not part of a coalition with Ruto. During a speech in Mombasa on November 1, Sifuna condemned ODM leaders who pledged allegiance to Ruto without the party’s approval. He reiterated that ODM’s engagement with the UDA party is based on a ten-point agenda outlined in their memorandum of understanding.
Sifuna also mentioned that the party is actively preparing to field its own presidential candidate. This indicates a clear strategy to maintain independence while engaging with other political entities. The party’s focus on its own candidate suggests a desire to assert its influence and avoid being seen as a subordinate force within the broader political landscape.
Key Points of Disagreement
- Support for Ruto: The party has not formally endorsed Ruto for the 2027 elections.
- MPs’ Declarations: Public support from certain MPs is viewed as lacking legitimacy and not representing the party.
- Party Structures: Any decisions regarding Ruto must come through the central committee, not individual MPs.
- Expelled Members: Some MPs who support Ruto have been expelled from ODM, highlighting internal divisions.
- Ten-Point Agenda: ODM’s collaboration with UDA is based on a specific set of principles outlined in a memorandum of understanding.
- Presidential Candidate: The party is preparing to field its own candidate, signaling a move towards independent political action.
These developments underscore the complex dynamics within the ODM party as it navigates its role in the broader political landscape. The internal disagreements reflect deeper ideological and strategic differences that could shape the party’s future actions and alliances. As the political climate continues to evolve, the ODM’s ability to maintain unity and clarity on key issues will be crucial in determining its effectiveness and influence.