EXPERT COMMENT: Support for ODM will be intact with or without Sifuna

I have seen varied opinions about ODM’s strength when it comes to negotiating with UDA, but I think they have the advantage of time, given that the wrangling is happening at this point.

I think the notion that has been peddled around—that ODM has split down the middle—is not a reality. If you look at those opposing talks with UDA, they are a handful; they are few, countable MPs.

You look at all the organs of the party and find that, for instance, in the Central Management Committee, it is Sifuna and deputy party leader Godfrey Osotsi who are opposed to the idea of talks.

It is very small faction, which seems not to have much influence in the organs of the party.

But that aside, the fact that the idea to talk with UDA has been mooted early enough will probably be seen when the talks begins in earnest. All these factionalisms will have since ceased and things will have settled.

Either the people who are opposed would have given up, because in politics, when your idea does not seem to sell, you either surrender or ship out.

I do not see them (dissenters) going away with such following of the party that would warrant UDA viewing ODM as weakened.

The two leaders do not enjoy a following compared to those in support.

I still hold the view that the side that is in support of negotiations will prevail and they will be able to carry with them a significant majority of the party and its strongholds.

It will be able to give ODM a reasonable grounding to take its rightful place in the planned negotiations.

Linda Wananchi is an attempt to bring anybody else who is opposed to the UDA government; it has nothing to do with fighting for Raila’s traditional bases. It is for anyone who is willing to attend a political rally and join them.

Linda Ground despite not bringing crowds as large as what we saw in Kitengela is more targeted and speaking to the members of the party.

The veteran activist spoke to the Star