ODM accuses coalition partners of using Raila as a scapegoat for their internal problems.

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has expressed concern over recent statements from members of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party. A media release on Monday revealed that these comments were seen as questioning ODM’s and its leader Raila Odinga’s dedication to their roles as key opposition figures.

In a strongly worded response, ODM’s leadership criticized the remarks for targeting Raila Odinga, ODM’s Party Leader and a central figure in the Azimio Coalition. The criticism has centered on four former senior ODM officials—Ali Hassan Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya, John Mbadi, and James Opiyo Wandayi—who have taken positions in Kenya’s Kwanza administration.

ODM clarified that these individuals joined the government in their personal capacities rather than as ODM representatives, responding to a national emergency and the president’s request. The party emphasized that there is no formal agreement between ODM and Kenya Kwanza suggesting a governance partnership.

The ODM reaffirmed its commitment to its role as a minority party, focusing on holding the government accountable, promoting transparency, and advocating for efficient service delivery to Kenyans. The party also stated it would not tolerate attempts by coalition partners to undermine its leadership or to use Raila Odinga as a scapegoat for internal Azimio coalition issues.

National Chairman Gladys Wanga highlighted ODM’s history of sacrifice in opposing Kenya Kwanza policies, noting the party’s experience with violence and repression during protests. ODM commended the four former officials for resigning from their party positions before joining the government, contrasting their integrity with what it described as dubious tactics by some Azimio partners.

This statement comes a day after Azimio coalition affiliate parties called for ODM’s removal from the coalition, accusing them of aligning with President Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration. PNU, Jubilee, and DAP-K have announced that Azimio Chair, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, will convene a meeting to discuss the coalition’s future and explore options to better oversee and check the Kenya Kwanza administration.

In a related development, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, speaking at a church service in Kirinyaga, criticized President William Ruto’s administration, calling it unconstitutional following recent Gen Z protests. He accused the broad-based government of exploiting the bloodshed of youths who were advocating for better governance.