Siaya Governor James Orengo has declared that a section of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will resist what he termed as attempts to weaken and “swallow” the party from within, following recent political developments involving the party and President William Ruto. 

Speaking in Kisumu Orengo said ODM was founded on strong ideological pillars that must be protected, warning against what he described as creeping political interference. 

“We believe that the late Raila Odinga and the ODM party stood for something fundamental, defending the people, fighting for their rights, upholding social democratic principles, and protecting the Bill of Rights. That is the true spirit of ODM,” he said. 

Orengo’s remarks come in the wake of a high-level meeting held at State House Nairobi involving ODM leadership and President Ruto an engagement that has sparked debate within the party and its support base.

 The Siaya governor termed the meeting a significant departure from tradition, noting that ODM engagements of such nature have historically been held outside State House. 

“Never before has Raila Odinga led ODM leadership into State House for discussions of this nature. Holding that meeting there signified the dominance of UDA and suggested political hegemony, despite ODM remaining the largest party in Kenya,” Orengo said. 

He further raised concerns over discussions reportedly touching on zoning and ODM strongholds, warning that such moves could undermine the party’s grassroots base. 

“Just two years ago, UDA struggled to establish presence even at sub-location or polling station levels in this region. Yet yesterday, we saw them holding widespread activities across the four counties,” he noted.

 Orengo shifted focus to what he described as the real challenge facing ODM, distancing blame from party members.

 “Let me be clear, the problem within ODM is not its members. The problem facing ODM is President William Ruto. He has penetrated the party structures and is attempting to do here what he did in Central Kenya where he dismantled the Jubilee Party after gaining influence,” he said. 

Giving a warning, Orengo said the Linda Mwananchi faction would stand firm in defending ODM’s identity and independence. 

“We want to tell President Ruto this, as long as we are alive, you will not swallow ODM. You will not destroy the party of Raila Amolo Odinga,” he said.

 End….