Co-operatives and SMEs Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has endorsed Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi as his successor for the position of deputy party leader in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). This recommendation, delivered during a speech at Mariaki Church of God in South-B on Sunday, has reignited discussions about party leadership, regional representation, and loyalty within ODM.
Oparanya’s endorsement comes in the wake of his resignation from the deputy leader position to assume a cabinet role. During his speech, Oparanya emphasized his belief that Osotsi is well-suited for the role. “When I left the party as deputy leader, I looked around and I decided that Osotsi has been loyal to the party. I told Raila that he (Osotsi) would be my suitable replacement and he listened to me,” Oparanya stated. His endorsement reflects a significant shift in the party’s internal dynamics and highlights the complexities of political succession in Kenya.
The timing of Oparanya’s recommendation is particularly notable given the existing controversy over the vacant deputy leader position. Kakamega ODM delegates, led by Governor Fernandes Barasa, had previously demanded that the seat be reserved for Kakamega County, citing Oparanya’s origins from the region. They even proposed Barasa himself as a viable candidate for the role. However, Oparanya’s endorsement of Osotsi has intensified the debate over regional representation versus party loyalty.
Oparanya’s dismissal of the regional argument was blunt. “I have seen some people screaming that the slot belonged to Kakamega County. That is bull shit. A Luhya is just a Luhya whether you come from Bungoma, Busia, Trans-Nzoia, Vihiga or Kakamega. These boundaries just exist for administration purposes,” he said. This statement highlights his stance that party leadership should be determined by merit and loyalty rather than strict regional quotas.
Osotsi’s response to the situation has been measured and strategic. He underscored ODM’s position in opposition politics, clarifying that the party has only provided expertise to the Kenya Kwanza government due to its operational challenges. “ODM has only seconded experts to the Kenya Kwanza government. They requested support because they were unable to run the government and we gave them experts. ODM has no agreement with the Kenya Kwanza government,” Osotsi explained. This position aligns with ODM’s broader strategy of holding the government accountable while remaining open to collaboration where necessary.
Moreover, Osotsi addressed concerns about party loyalty, reassuring ODM members that those who have taken up government roles as Cabinet Secretaries will eventually return to the party. This statement is intended to reassure party members that the temporary shift to government positions does not signal a permanent departure from ODM’s core values and objectives.
The debate surrounding the ODM deputy leader position encapsulates broader themes of political maneuvering and regional interests in Kenya. It reflects the challenges that major parties face in managing internal dissent while striving to present a unified front. As ODM navigates this leadership transition, the party’s ability to reconcile regional demands with strategic leadership decisions will be crucial in determining its future direction.
Oparanya’s recommendation of Osotsi is more than just a personal endorsement; it represents a significant moment in ODM’s evolving leadership dynamics. If Osotsi is confirmed as the new deputy leader, it could signal a new phase for the party, marked by renewed focus and strategic realignment. The coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping the party’s response to this endorsement and addressing the broader concerns of its members and supporters.
