Political Crossroads: ODM’s Leadership Divided Over Ruto Deal

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), under the leadership of opposition figure Raila Odinga, is currently experiencing internal conflict following the political accord with President William Ruto.

This agreement has led to the integration of prominent ODM members into Ruto’s government, generating divergent statements about their allegiance to the administration and prospects for the next election. Recently, Junet Mohamed, ODM’s director of elections and Secretary General of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition, accompanied President Ruto on a tour of the coast, where he criticized those opposing the government. His actions mirror those of several former ODM leaders, including Hassan Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya, John Mbadi, Opiyo Wandayi, and Beatrice Askul, who joined the government last July.

Although Mohamed does not hold a cabinet position, his vocal support for the government has caused unease among some party members. Mohamed contends that if the government is enacting ODM’s manifesto, there is no justification for opposition. However, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has reiterated the party’s commitment to opposing the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), asserting his role as the official spokesperson and clarifying that there is no formal agreement between ODM and the UDA.

Sifuna has emphasized that former ODM officials who have taken positions in the government do not represent the party. Further illustrating the party’s internal struggles, Sifuna declined to attend President Ruto’s recent State of the Nation address, expressing a lack of trust in Ruto’s integrity. In contrast, Mohamed, along with Joho and Wandayi, have openly endorsed Ruto’s administration and indicated support for his potential re-election in 2027.

Additionally, Treasury CS John Mbadi has voiced his backing for Ruto should Odinga decide not to run in the upcoming election. Mohamed maintains that, as the Minority Leader in the National Assembly, he is the legitimate opposition leader, asserting that there is nothing to resist if the government is aligning with ODM’s objectives. Migori Senator Eddy Oketch, who leads the Orange Democratic Movement’s Disaster Response Committee, has publicly defended former Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho’s.

Oketch emphasizes that once a Cabinet Secretary takes an oath of office, they are committed to the government’s agenda and responsible for its preservation. In his remarks, Oketch further clarifies that while Junet Mohamed may have faced criticism for his statements, his role as a parliamentary opposition leader justifies his position. Oketch notes that opposition voices are essential in a democratic discourse, even as he calls on all political leaders, including the President, to exercise caution in their rhetoric and policies to prevent unrest, particularly among the youth demographic.

He cautions leaders against displays of arrogance and affluence, suggesting that such behavior could reignite social tensions, echoing the unrest seen in recent months.