Mixed reception for ODM faction against broad-based deal

In Ugunja town, the tour was cut short after youths chanting “Ruto two term!” slogans disrupted their speeches.

The leaders, who were en route to Busia for a rally, were forced to leave in haste after heckling from sections of the crowd made it impossible to continue.

Earlier, before proceeding to Ugunja, the ODM splinter group had planned to attend a church service in Alego Usonga constituency, but cancelled abruptly.

On arrival in Busia, the convoy was welcomed by thousands of residents lined on the streets to welcome them despite earlier tension that had griped the town, with goons barricading the major highway.

There, the Linda Wanaichi group castigated the faction led by party leader Oburu Oginga, accusing them of selling the party to President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA). 

Orengo-led team said they will not enter into a new agreement with UDA until Ruto meets the ten-point agenda signed by him and late Raila Odinga.

Addressing a rally at the Busia stadium, they said they don't recognize the Oburu faction, led faction, which, according to them, is out to auction the party, the leading UDA.

The Ugunja group, which disrupted the Linda Wananchi tour, accused the ODM splinter group of failing to embrace government participation.

They said that what they need is development and empowerment and promised to stand with President Ruto for his re-election.