- The ODM deputy leader alleged that the UDA is trying to interfere with the basic structures of ODM in Western Kenya
- He explained the only binding agreement between the two political parties and warned against misleading ODM members
- ODM insisted that it remains independent and warned members against UDA’s illegal plans in electoral activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) deputy leader Godfrey Osotsi has accused the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) of trying to take over his grassroots structures in Western Kenya.
Source: Facebook
In a statement issued on Wednesday, January 8, Osotsi claimed that several ODM MPs and officials in Vihiga and Kakamega counties were recently drawn into election meetings and campaign strategies. UDA as part of a wider plan to weaken the opposition party.
Is there a valid agreement between ODM and UDA?
He cited a meeting reported to be held on January 6 at the Golf Hotel in Kakamega, where MPs elected on ODM tickets are alleged to have attended a meeting called by senior UDA officials.
The Vihiga senator said ODM members were being encouraged to participate in the UDA grassroots elections after being deceived that the two parties entered into a political partnership agreement.
“There is no agreement or legal agreement between ODM and UDA at the national or local level. This is happening in various parts of Western Kenya, where UDA has tried and, in some cases, succeeded in involving and attracting ODM MPs, County MPs, and county officials in UDA programs, especially in Vihiga and Kakamega counties.
The UDA force has gone further to form a regional presidential conference that includes ODM members, in clear violation of the Political Parties Act and the ODM constitution. The fraudulent actions of the UDA party are sad and malicious, especially now that the ODM party is in the middle of finding its base following the death of our former party leader, Raila Amolo Odinga,” he said while warning members against participating in UDA activities under what he called false pretenses.
He explained that the only agreement between ODM and UDA was the 10-point reform agenda signed after protest of mid-2024 led by General Z which led to the creation of a broad government.
According to Osotsi, the reform package, which is expected to disappear in 2027, does not mean an agreement on political cooperation or an electoral alliance.
Is UDA illegally exploiting ODM networks?
The ODM deputy leader accused the UDA of using the reform system to illegally use ODM’s networks, which he said had been built up over two decades, with the aim of weeding out party officials deemed ‘unwanted’ without causing public outcry.
“Incorporating our members into UDA programs in the manner described above is therefore a hostile attempt by UDA to use ODM’s established structures illegally,” he added.
Osotsi further emphasized that ODM remains an independent political party and is not part of the UDA, noting that the broad arrangement does not show how the two parties will approach the 2027 General Election.
He urged ODM members to oppose what he described as illegal plans and praised some ODM officials in Vihiga and Kakamega counties who had begun withdrawing from UDA activities after raising concerns.
Did Ida Odinga call for stability in ODM?
At the same time, Ida Odinga he urged ODM leaders to respect Raila’s legacy by using dialogue to resolve disputes.
Source: Facebook
He said that Raila always consulted and respected the people when he led the party through difficult times.
He emphasized unity and service and encouraged leaders to reflect on Raila’s vision for the party and the country.
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