In what signals a major rift within the broad-based government, the ODM party is now threatening to withdraw from the coalition, claiming its MPs are being harassed and forced to defect to the UDA party led by President William Ruto.
The party says there is use of intimidation and state resources in a scheme to weaken it and reduce it to a regional party confined mainly to the Nyanza region, particularly among the Luo community, in order to diminish its bargaining power in pre-2027 election coalition talks.
In a special interview, Minority Leader Junet Mohammed said there is a deliberate plot being coordinated by senior government officials who are uncomfortable with ODM’s presence in the broad-based government.
He stated that ODM’s inclusion in government was not an act of goodwill, but rather an effort to strengthen unity and development in the country, as envisioned by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga before his death in October last year.
“We are not in government by chance or invitation. We joined to promote unity and inclusivity. If that agenda no longer exists, they should say so clearly because we are not short of options,” said Mr. Mohammed.
ODM has now convened an emergency meeting of its Central Management Committee (CMC) to discuss the current political situation, warning that tensions could escalate if their grievances are not addressed.
Mr. Mohammed alleged that ODM MPs, especially from the Coast and Western regions, are being pressured to join UDA.
He also claimed that ODM members appointed to government positions are being intimidated to distance themselves from the party.
“Those we sent to government are being warned not to associate with ODM. This must stop.”
“Being in government is not a favor,” he added.
The dispute comes as ODM signals interest in demanding the Deputy President position in pre-election coalition negotiations, a move that has sparked tensions with allies of Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki.
Meanwhile, Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula claimed that many ODM MPs from the county are ready to defect to UDA ahead of the next election, dismissing the idea of regional zoning.
At the same time, Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo called on President Ruto and ODM leader Oburu Oginga to form negotiation teams to address contentious issues such as zoning.
“Time is moving. We must be prepared with strategies early in case talks fail,” he said.
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