Raila sends strong message to ODM ‘rebels’ who met President Ruto
ODM leader Raila Odinga has responded to the the deep divisions that have apparently emerged in the party, by saying the political outfit is still strong.
Mr Odinga’s response came via social media in a post that captured him with the party’s top brass including former Mombasa governor Hassan Joho, former Kakamega governor Wycliffe Oparanya and Suna East lawmaker Junet Mohamed.
He captioned the photo with words that seem to be directed at a section of MPs from his party who early on Tuesday met President William Ruto at State House Nairobi.
“Had a refreshing lunch with my brothers. Tuko Imara,” Odinga wrote.
Also read: Alai defends ODM politicians who met President Ruto
The political leaders who met the president and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua at State House were led by Kisumu Senator Prof Tom Ojienda. The delegation comprised MPs Gideon Ochanda (Bondo), Caroli Omondi (Suba-South), Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Shakeel Shabir (Kisumu East), Paul Abuor (Rongo), Mark Nyamita (Uriri), Walter Owino (Awendo) and Felix Odiwuor alias Jalang’o (Langata).
Also present was Cabinet Secretary for ICT Eliud Owalo. Mr Shabir won on an Independent ticket while the rest were elected on ODM ticket.
Earlier in the day, ODM Director of Communication Philip Etale accused the MPs of trying to undermine Mr Odinga, adding that their objective to press the Kenya Kwanza government to resign will go on.
“Since the victory of our party leader Raila Odinga was stolen and the will of the people subverted after the August 9, 2022 General Election, some leaders have elected to undermine the leadership of the party and chosen to go against the will of the people who elected them to positions they hold,” Mr Etale said in press release.
Also read: Why I met President Ruto in State House with ODM MPs – Jalango
ODM has also accused President Ruto of trying to buy the opposition MPs in a bid to weaken the Azimio team which is out to put the Kenya Kwanza government in check.
“Three months ago, the Azimio la Umoja leadership began rallies to push for the reclamation of its victory from the hands of the illegitimate administration in order to provide the leadership Kenyans want, but all along, we knew the enemy will not sit pretty,” Etale said.
President Ruto, on his part, has called on all leaders to join hands in confronting the challenges facing our country.
“They (the leaders) must endeavor to lead by example and serve the interest of the people. This is a sure route to a more united and developed Kenya,” President Ruto tweeted after the meeting.
Also read: Selfish: ODM reacts to Jalango and other Azimio MPs meeting President Ruto