Cracks within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) continue to widen after Siaya Governor James Orengo launched a fierce attack on several top party officials, accusing them of secretly working with President William Ruto behind the scenes.
Speaking during a televised interview, Orengo claimed that some senior ODM leaders had abandoned the party’s opposition role and were instead helping strengthen President Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration.
The governor alleged that private meetings involving key ODM figures and the Head of State were being held without the knowledge of ordinary party members.
Orengo specifically mentioned ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga, Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir.
According to him, the four leaders have been engaging in discussions aimed at shaping the future leadership of ODM after the death of longtime party leader Raila Odinga.
The outspoken governor warned that the party risks losing its identity if it continues moving closer to the ruling government.
He further alleged that some ODM activities and meetings had received support from State House, raising concerns about the independence of the party.
His remarks come at a time when ODM is facing growing internal pressure from rival camps seeking influence ahead of the 2027 General Election.
While one section of the party appears open to cooperating with President Ruto, another faction insists ODM must remain a strong opposition movement.
Orengo also defended his recent declaration that he was the “de facto” leader of ODM following Raila Odinga’s death.
He argued that the party constitution allows one of the deputy leaders to temporarily guide the party before fresh internal elections are conducted.
The comments have triggered intense political debate across the country, with supporters and critics divided over the future direction of ODM.
Some leaders believe cooperation with the government is necessary for development and political survival, while others see it as a betrayal of the party’s founding principles.
As political temperatures continue rising, all eyes are now on ODM’s next moves and whether the party can remain united ahead of the high-stakes 2027 elections.
Sources; https://citizen.digital/article/orengo-accuses-4-odm-officials-of-selling-party-to-ruto-cites-private-meetings-n382213?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPMjc1MjU0NjkyNTk4Mjc5AAEekXUuPSxCfkAJGTssJCpMn6fsm_4YsmVBBVJSZDvB51SzhlbtDbMxGFVamFk_aem_LgQ3IuOUwoE4KVQ0rb9JJA
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