Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders have called on the former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, to refrain from interfering in the party’s internal matters and to focus on his own political agenda. This came after Gachagua recently offered political advice to ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Speaking during the official opening of a new office in Kanduyi constituency, Bungoma, ODM deputy party leader Godfrey Otsotsi expressed his dissatisfaction with Gachagua’s comments, urging the former deputy president to show respect for Odinga and refrain from commenting on ODM’s internal decisions. Otsotsi emphasized that Gachagua should focus on his own political priorities instead of engaging in the party's affairs.
In a related development, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna addressed the gathering, emphasizing the party's ongoing struggles with national government support. Sifuna revealed that the national government owes ODM Ksh 10 billion, money that could have been used to establish party offices nationwide. He reiterated his commitment to securing a substantial role for ODM in government and ensuring the party’s relevance in national politics.
Despite the ongoing challenges, Sifuna maintained his loyalty to ODM, highlighting that while securing a Senate seat is an arduous task, he was focused on bringing justice to the party. He pledged to repay the party’s support and vowed that ODM would not consider folding into a coalition with President William Ruto. "ODM remains strong and intact," Sifuna assured the crowd, "and we will not abandon our values for political expediency."
Senator Sifuna also promised to introduce changes within the party to improve grassroots leadership and ensure fair election processes. His comments come in the wake of concerns about past coalitions that had left ODM supporters in Bungoma disappointed.
Adding to the conversation, Saboti MP Caleb Hamisi voiced his concerns over internal party criticism targeting key ODM figures such as Makadara MP George Aladwa and the party's spokesperson, Kaluma. Hamisi called for protection of Sifuna from such attacks, stating that these actions were detrimental to the party's unity and must be addressed for the sake of ODM’s future.
As ODM prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary tomorrow in Busia, party leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to unity and progress. They urged Raila Odinga to take time to consult with party members and offer clear guidance for the party’s future direction.
ODM leaders are optimistic about the future, with the overarching goal of strengthening the party’s position both nationally and within its grassroots structures.
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