ODM is treating Gusii leaders like second-class members; MP Kibagendi says

The lawmakers have accused the party leadership of discrimination, unfulfilled promises, and the treatment of their elected leaders as ‘second-class members'.

Led by Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi, the MPs raised concerns about alleged discrimination within the ODM Party, calling for equal treatment of the Omogusii community, which they assert has played a significant role in building and supporting the party.

“We have genuinely been very patient and respectful, despite extended periods of discrimination,” said Kibagendi during a meeting in Nairobi on Sunday.

He was accompanied by Bomachoge Borabu MP Obadiah Barongo and Charles Onchoke (UPA).

The MPs cited unfair representation in parliamentary committees as a key grievance. Kibagendi pointed out that in the 13th Parliament, only three MPs from the Kisii region serve on single committees, while ODM MPs from other regions hold up to three committee memberships each. 

Furthermore, he stressed that no legislator from Gusii serves as a chairperson or vice-chairperson in any committee in either the National Assembly or the Senate.

“Members of the public and our supporters should know the extent of this disparity. Despite our unwavering loyalty to the party, we have been relegated to minor roles while others enjoy undue privileges,” Kibagendi added.

Kibagendi also narrated the party’s failure to honor previous agreements with the Gusii community. 

He referenced an unwritten pact within ODM that, following the resignation of several leaders who took up Cabinet Secretary positions, the Minority Leadership in Parliament would be restructured. 

According to him, the agreement entailed Suna East MP Junet Mohammed becoming the Leader of Minority, while a leader from Gusii would assume the Minority Whip role. However, this arrangement was ignored.

Gusii leaders also say they negotiated for representation on the Budget and Appropriations Committee. 

Despite assurances that one of the five members from Luo Nyanza would relinquish their slot, this promise was never fulfilled.

Kibagendi expressed frustration over the perceived sidelining of Gusii leaders in ODM's top leadership. 

He noted that Kisii Governor Simba Arati was initially proposed to take up the role of the Party Chairperson slot and Timothy Bosire for a Cabinet Secretary position, given his long-standing loyalty as a National Executive Council (NEC) member. 

However, these positions were either diluted or given to leaders from other regions.

“Instead of appointing Simba Arati as Deputy Party Leader in a meaningful capacity, the party created an additional position, watering down its significance. Furthermore, Governor Gladys Wanga was named Party Chairperson, a role we had hoped would go to a Gusii leader,” said Kibagendi.

Another blow, according to Kibagendi, came on Friday when Bosire, a trusted ally of ODM leader Raila Odinga, was appointed as the non-executive Chairman of the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) by President William Ruto without prior consultation. 

Feeling the position did not reflect his contributions to the party, Bosire declined the appointment.

“After consulting with the leadership, my family, and friends, I have decided to decline this appointment. I thank President William Ruto for his consideration,” Bosire stated on Saturday.

In light of these developments, Kibagendi urged the Gusii community to unite and build their own political framework that would effectively represent their interests at the national level.

“We have been disrespected for far too long. Let us come together, forge unity of purpose, and establish our own house and leadership—one that can either take the ultimate prize or negotiate on behalf of our community,” said Kibagendi.

He called for  the need for the Gusii people to prioritize unity and self-determination in their political pursuits.