Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has reaffirmed that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will stay firmly within President William Ruto’s broad-based government, brushing off growing criticism from within and outside the party.

In a statement issued on Friday, November 14, 2025, Kaluma said growing agitation over ODM’s place in the coalition is misplaced, arguing that the party has played a stabilising role by choosing dialogue over confrontation.

He noted that those questioning ODM’s alliance with UDA appear to misunderstand the party’s strategic direction and its commitment to national cohesion.

He maintained that ODM’s engagement in the current political arrangement will extend well past the 2027 elections, adding that internal and external critics will not derail the party’s course.

“Why are some people suddenly so concerned that @TheODMparty is in the Broad-Based Government? Did we fold the streets for those who want to protest? We are not leaving any time soon. In fact, we are going beyond 2027 without Gachagua and his associates,” he wrote on X.

In an earlier statement on October 21, 2025,Kaluma said ODM’s involvement in the unity government was a decision rooted in the political path laid down by the late Raila Odinga.

According to him, the broad-based government was one of Odinga’s last acts of unity, aimed at ensuring inclusivity and stability in the country.

He noted that the party would remain a distinct entity even as it works with President Ruto under the existing memorandum of understanding signed in March 2025. Kaluma maintained that ODM’s identity and long-standing principles would not be diluted by the cooperation.

The MP also addressed criticism from notable leaders such as Martha Karua and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.

He accused them of attempting to undermine ODM’s choices only days after Odinga’s funeral, urging them to respect the former prime minister’s legacy.

Kaluma’s remarks again brought former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua into focus. Over the past months, he has accused Gachagua of promoting divisive politics and warned that giving him extensive media airtime could heighten political tensions.

Kaluma also supported the former DP’s impeachment earlier this year, saying it was necessary to protect the country from tribal-driven leadership.

During Raila Odinga’s state funeral, President Ruto praised the former opposition chief as a patriot and promised to honour his vision of unity by maintaining close cooperation with ODM.