Traitors! Raila calls out ODM rebel MPs
Odinga, leader of Azimio la Umoja, has responded to critics who have accused him of applying double standards to the cases of rebel Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) members of parliament.
Raila, who was attending a political party event in Migori County, attempted to defend his newly formed alliance with the State while penalizing ODM MPs who work closely with the administration of President William Ruto.
According to the former prime minister, Orange Party members are only permitted to cooperate with the government if they follow the channels established by his political faction.
“Our party members in direct talks with our opponents are traitors. Let them use the proper channels. The development comes via structured processes, not dished out at statehouse,” Raila stated.
He reiterated that the so-called dissident ODM MPs were collaborating closely with President Ruto while disregarding party positions on several national issues.
He accused the leaders in particular of seeking cheap favors from those in power and deviating from party policy when they were most required.
“Loyalty, fidelity, and love for one another are the three main reasons political parties grow. ODM shall not condone political infidelity in the name of some members seeking cheap political favors from those in power,” Raila stated.
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Raila faced opposition after the ODM Party’s National Executive Committee voted to expel Lang’ata’s MP Felix Odiwuor alias Jalang’o, Gem’s Elisha Odhiambo, Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, Bondo’s MP Gideon Ochanda, and Suba South’s Caroli Omondi.
Ezekiel Mutua, chief executive officer of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya, is one of the key figures who criticized Raila for punishing the MPs, noting that it makes the reason that the former prime minister is permitted to meet Ruto but not his party membership.
Mutua claims that Raila’s party would rather have an incompetent, party-loyal member of parliament than one who is diligent, knowledgeable, and results-oriented and works with the government.
“Being friends with the President and collaborating with the Government of the day doesn’t mean betrayal of the party. It’s wisdom reloaded. You don’t get development by insulting the President and shunning the Government.
“People like Prof. Ojienda, Mark Nyamita, and Jalang’o are some of the best MPs in the current parliament. They should break the spell of party captivity even if it costs them their seats,” Mutua claimed.
However, Mutua also stated that he believes in political cleanliness and party loyalty.
“One doesn’t have to throw away their brains to be loyal,” Mutua claimed.
In a further act of defiance, ODM announced leadership changes on Friday, September 8, with Kisii Governor Simba Arati replacing former Kisii Woman Representative Janet Ong’era as the Deputy National Chairperson.
In addition, the ODM appointed Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo as the new Deputy Secretary-General, replacing Florence Mutua, who has since sworn allegiance to Ruto.
Caleb Amisi was appointed as the new Deputy Organising Secretary to replace Zulekha Hassan, who was nominated for the position.
Traitors! Raila calls out ODM rebel MPs