The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has softened its previously firm stance against rebel Members of Parliament who were sanctioned after meeting with President William Ruto in February 2023. The ODM party leadership, which initially demanded resignations from these MPs, is now welcoming them back, albeit with conditions. ODM National Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga announced that these members would need to undergo thorough vetting and political cleansing before being fully integrated back into the party.
A Conditional Welcome
Governor Wanga emphasized that while the ODM party is open to reconciliation, it is not without scrutiny. Speaking during a reunion meeting organized by Azimio leader Raila Odinga at his late father’s home in Nyamira Kang’o, Bondo constituency, she stressed that the party would not simply accept these MPs back without ensuring their allegiance to the party’s core values and leadership. Wanga dismissed perceptions that ODM has been overshadowed by Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), insisting that ODM remains robust under Odinga’s leadership. She reinforced the message that Raila Odinga continues to be the pivotal figure guiding the party’s direction.
“ODM is still strong, and Raila is our leader. He is the one giving us direction, and as long as we are united, we are not threatened by our current working relationship with other parties,” Wanga remarked.
A Call for Unity and Strengthening of ODM
The meeting was marked by a consensus among key ODM figures, including Siaya Governor James Orengo and Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko, who echoed the need for unity and strengthening of the party. Orengo supported Wanga’s stance, adding that while the rebel MPs are welcomed back, they should expect to take a back seat, acknowledging their past disloyalties.
“We welcome them back, but they must understand that they cannot immediately assume leadership roles without proving their commitment to the party,” Orengo said.
Governor Ochilo Ayacko reiterated the importance of maintaining a strong ODM presence, even amidst cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza administration. He called on party members to rally together and ensure that the ODM remains a formidable force in the Kenyan political landscape, regardless of any perceived alignments with the ruling party.
The Rebel MPs and Their Path to Reconciliation
The rebel MPs in question include Caroli Omondi (Suba South), Tom Ojienda (Kisumu), Mark Nyamita (Uriri), Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Felix Jalang’o Odiwuor (Lang’ata), and Gideon Ochanda (Bondo). These MPs were expelled by the ODM’s National Executive Committee after their meeting with President Ruto, which was seen as a betrayal of the party’s stance. At the time, party leader Raila Odinga accused them of disloyalty and called for their resignation, urging them to seek re-election under different political banners.
However, the latest developments indicate a shift towards reconciliation, albeit under strict conditions. ODM’s leadership appears keen on ensuring that any reintegration process is managed carefully to avoid further internal discord.
The Road Ahead for ODM
As ODM navigates these reconciliatory waters, the focus remains on maintaining a unified front under Raila Odinga’s leadership. The decision to open the doors for the rebel MPs underscores the party’s flexibility and desire to mend internal rifts while safeguarding its principles. Governor Wanga’s call for vetting and political cleansing is a clear signal that while ODM is open to forgiveness, it is not without accountability.
The party’s efforts to balance reconciliation with discipline will be crucial in determining its strength and unity ahead of future political challenges. As ODM continues to assert its presence, the coming months will be telling of how well the party can integrate its previously expelled members and move forward with a cohesive strategy.
