Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang has come out strongly in defense of Siaya Governor James Orengo and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, urging critics within and outside the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to allow the two leaders the freedom to express their views.
Speaking to NTV, Kajwang emphasized that ODM does not promote blind loyalty, but rather encourages honest critique grounded in patriotism and constitutionalism. “As much as we are in the broad-based government, if things are not working right, we will speak out,” he stated. “If there are abductions, if the health system is failing, we will raise our voices – but always with respect and with the intention of building, not dividing.”
Orengo and Sifuna have recently faced backlash after criticizing some ODM leaders and questioning the party’s recent cooperation with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration. The two have accused some party colleagues of ignoring the suffering of ordinary Kenyans in the wake of the political truce.
Kajwang, however, made it clear that speaking uncomfortable truths should not be grounds for condemnation. “We cannot be a praise and worship choir. Those are not the values that ODM stands for,” he remarked. He reiterated that ODM, while collaborating with Kenya Kwanza on matters of national interest, remains an independent political force.
The senator also reaffirmed ODM’s future political plans, noting that the party is preparing to field a presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections. “One thing must be made clear: building a movement like ODM is no easy task. ODM shall remain, and it will be on the ballot in 2027,” he said.
Kajwang further clarified that ODM’s cooperation with Ruto was motivated by the need to stabilize the country, especially in light of the mid-2024 unrest. He stressed the importance of unity in addressing the nation’s pressing economic and social challenges.
His remarks come at a time when political dynamics within ODM are under intense public scrutiny, especially following Raila Odinga’s evolving relationship with the Kenya Kwanza regime.
