ODM Signals Readiness for Broad-Based Government Amid Azimio Tensions and Internal Rifts
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), led by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, signaled its readiness to independently pursue the formation of a ‘broad-based government,’ as proposed by President William Ruto.
This move was underscored during a coalition meeting at Mr. Odinga’s Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation offices, where Wiper Democratic Movement leader Kalonzo Musyoka faced disruptions as he read out resolutions opposing government participation.
Notably absent were key ODM leaders, including former governors Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, and directors Junet Mohamed and Junet Mohamed.
The disruption occurred as Mr. Musyoka began to read statements definitively declaring the coalition’s decision not to join any government proposed by the Kenya Kwanza coalition.
President Ruto had advocated for a Government of National Unity, a proposal some ODM members were considering.
Earlier, ODM’s joint National Executive Committee and Parliamentary Group meetings endorsed national dialogue to resolve the political crisis, emphasizing inclusivity and constitutional processes.
Among the conditions set for the dialogue were justice for victims of police brutality, including compensation, the apprehension of responsible officers, and a national amnesty.
The coalition also demanded the immediate interdiction of senior police officials overseeing the atrocities and the release of all abductees.
Mr. Odinga and his supporters within ODM showed a willingness to engage with President Ruto, contrasting with claims that Azimio la Umoja leaders, backed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, were aligning with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
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At the ODM meeting, tensions were evident regarding the honesty of their Azimio partners and differing views on President Ruto’s resignation calls.
Mr. Odinga cautioned against destabilizing actions, highlighting the risks of leadership changes leading to unrest akin to Egypt’s post-Tahrir Square turmoil.
The meeting emphasized the need for structured talks with open minds, stressing that party collaborations serve member interests.
Meanwhile, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, absent from Azimio’s PG, rejected dialogue, demanding the dismissal of protest-related cases and compensation for victims.
This stance contrasted with other Azimio members endorsing dialogue, including Peter Munya, while Jubilee’s Jeremiah Kioni opposed it.
Martha Karua of Narc-Kenya cautioned against politicizing reform efforts, urging genuine accountability aligned with public interests.
Internal tensions within Azimio were fueled by claims of Mr. Kenyatta’s support for Kalonzo Musyoka in 2027, allegedly isolating Mr. Odinga.
Mr. Kenyatta’s opposition to Mr. Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship added complexity, influencing ODM’s stance towards Dr. Ruto.
Reports suggest Mr. Kenyatta aimed to consolidate central Kenya support for Mr. Odinga’s potential presidency, urging him to forego the AUC role for a 2027 presidential bid.
ODM Signals Readiness for Broad-Based Government Amid Azimio Tensions and Internal Rifts
