‘Respect Each Other,’ Raila Breaks Silence Amid Widening Rift in ODM Over Broad-Based Government

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has called for unity and restraint within the party amid growing tensions over its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), which birthed the broad-based government.

In a statement issued through his spokesperson Dennis Onyango on Friday, Odinga urged ODM members to exercise decorum, civility, and respect for each other as they debate the party’s current state and future.

Odinga acknowledged the ongoing discussions regarding ODM’s relationship with the Kenya Kwanza administration, noting that such engagements are not unique to ODM but mirror those in established democracies. He assured members that the party’s relevant organs would soon harmonize diverse views and chart a unified way forward. “Mr. Odinga assures members that the party will remain united and focused on matters of interest to the nation,” the statement read.

The statement comes against the backdrop of a reported rift within ODM, particularly following Siaya Governor James Orengo’s public criticism of the party’s ties with Kenya Kwanza. Speaking at the burial of Odinga’s bodyguard George Oduor on April 12, Orengo expressed defiance, stating, “I cannot be a praise-singer… This country will go to the dogs again if the kind of language we hear continues.” His remarks have fueled speculation of a deepening divide between supporters and opponents of the broad-based government deal.

Tensions were further highlighted during the same funeral when ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and President Ruto clashed. Sifuna urged Ruto to “read the riot act” to those complicating his work, while Ruto warned Sifuna to restrain his criticism, reminding him of his role as a co-founder of ODM. “If you push me too far, I will call a meeting of ODM founder members… to discipline you,” Ruto retorted.

In response to Orengo’s defiance, ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi emphasized Odinga’s authority, stating, “Raila Odinga is our party leader, and what he says is what we follow as a party.” Osotsi framed Orengo’s actions as an exercise of internal party democracy.