ODM Stands firm; party leaders defend UDA deal,Rule out Gachagua Alliance.
By Emmanuel Jumaah
As the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) charts its political future, the party's top leadership has rallied members to remain united, defending its working relationship with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) as a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening the party's influence and delivering tangible benefits to its supporters.
Led by Party Chairperson Gladys Wanga, Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, Busia Governor Paul Otuoma and Secretary-General Catherine Omanyo, the leaders urged members to remain steadfast and reject politicians they accused of fueling divisions within the party for personal political gain.
The leaders maintained that ODM's engagement with UDA is not a blind political alliance but a calculated partnership meant to ensure the party and its supporters benefit from being part of government. They said any cooperation with UDA must translate into tangible gains, including more government appointments, increased development projects, and greater opportunities for areas that overwhelmingly support ODM.
"This partnership is about protecting the interests of ODM supporters and ensuring the party has a voice in government"
They argued that whenever ODM sits at the negotiating table with UDA, the party's first question is simple: "What will ODM and its supporters gain from this partnership?"According to the leaders, the alliance will only remain meaningful if it delivers real benefits to the people who have stood with the party over the years.
Busia Governor Paul Otuoma also appealed to the party's top leadership not to entertain individuals spreading propaganda, political intrigues, and unnecessary infighting within ODM. He warned that listening to leaders bent on creating divisions would only weaken the party and erode the unity that has kept ODM strong.
"We should not allow people who thrive on propaganda and division to determine the future of ODM. Our strength lies in our unity, and that unity must be protected." ~ Dr. Paul Otuoma
The leaders further criticized politicians associated with the "Linda Mwananchi" faction, accusing them of placing personal political ambitions above the interests of ordinary Kenyans. They urged party members to remain united and protect the party from internal wrangles.
"ODM has chosen its path. We remain united, focused, and committed to building a stronger party that delivers for its members and the people of Kenya."
They also dismissed any possibility of ODM entering into a political alliance with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's Democratic Change Party (DCP), insisting the party remains committed to its current political direction as it prepares for the next General Election.
