In a political influence in Western Kenya, Moses Wetang’ula has initiated efforts to unite regional leaders. This has created ripples within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), leading to significant political tensions.
ODM had issued a stern warning to its Members of County Assembly (MCAs) through a letter dated May 29. The letter explicitly instructed ODM MCAs to abstain from attending Wetang’ula’s meeting, signaling the party’s concern over possible fragmentation of its support base in the region.
Despite the directive from ODM, at least ten ODM MCAs attended the meeting organized by Mr. Wetang’ula. The meeting, held with representatives from Busia, Kakamega, Bungoma, and Vihiga County Assemblies, showcased a significant turnout and indicated a potential shift in the political landscape.
The attendance of ODM MCAs at Wetang’ula’s meeting is a clear indication of underlying rifts within the party. This defiance not only undermines ODM’s authority but also suggests that Wetang’ula’s call for unity resonates with a considerable faction of the region’s leaders. The party now faces the challenge of addressing this internal discord while maintaining its stronghold in Western Kenya.
Moses Wetang’ula’s strategy to invite all MCAs from the region, regardless of their party affiliations, underscores his broader objective of regional unity. By doing so, he positions himself as a unifying figure capable of transcending party lines, potentially boosting his influence and bargaining power within the national political arena.
As the political landscape in Western Kenya evolves, the actions of leaders like Moses Wetang’ula and the responses from major parties like ODM will be critical in shaping future alignments. The defiance of ODM MCAs attending Wetang’ula’s meeting signals a significant moment of political realignment, setting the stage for further developments in the region’s political dynamics.
