ODM leaders say broad-based pact between Raila, Ruto didn’t include formation of coalition

Leaders of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) on Sunday dismissed claims that the broad-based pact between party leader Raila Odinga and President William Ruto signalled the formation of a political coalition.

Speaking during a church service at PAG Church in Kawangware, the leaders maintained that the engagement between Raila and Ruto was conditional and centred on governance reforms, not a political alliance.

Siaya Governor James Orengo said Raila was clear on the terms of engagement, insisting that the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report must be fully implemented.

“Broad-based pact between Raila and Ruto didn’t indicate formation of a coalition. Raila alisema lazima Nadco report itekelezwe. Kama Ruto ni rafiki ya Baba afungue server tuone kama alishinda,” Orengo said.

Nairobi Senator and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna warned against any attempts to undermine the party’s leadership or disrespect Raila Odinga’s family.

“Mimi naomba familia ya Raila Odinga iheshimiwe. Kama haukua na nguvu ya kuingilia Mama Ida ama familia yake wakati Raila alikua hai, hio nguvu umetoa wapi sasa? Hatutaingia coalition ya wale waliuwa Gen Zs,” Sifuna said.

Sifuna further cautioned that any move to remove him as ODM Secretary General would have serious consequences for the party.

“If someone tries to remove Sifuna as ODM Sec Gen, that will be the end of ODM,” he said, adding that ODM “cannot be sold” and remains the largest party in the country.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino took a defiant stance, saying ODM would not bow to intimidation as he called for internal party democracy, urging ODM to convene a National Delegates Convention (NDC).

“Sisi kama ODM will not worship the god of Nebuchadnezzar. Wakuje na marungu na bunduki, we will go against them,” Babu said.

“We want you to call NDC na kama hamuezi ita NDC, tutatafuta 1,600 signatures Sifuna aite NDC na kisha tuseme baada ya Baba ni Babu."

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi accused unnamed individuals of attempting to destabilise the party using money.

“Wanataka kuvuruga chama ya Raila na hatutakubali. Chama cha ODM sio ya ufisadi. Hii pesa iko kwa magunia ni ya SHA ambayo inapewa watu wa ODM wavuruge chama,” Osotsi said.

The leaders reiterated that ODM’s focus remains on accountability, party unity and the implementation of agreed reforms, dismissing suggestions that the party had entered into a coalition with the ruling administration.