Siaya Governor James Orengo has launched a scathing attack on the leadership direction of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), declaring himself a “people’s party leader” within the outfit and alleging a scheme to undermine its strength and independence.

Speaking amid growing tensions within the party in Kisumu on April 24th, Orengo claimed ODM was at risk of being “sold to political enemies”, warning that he would spearhead an internal push to safeguard its legacy and influence.

“I am the people’s party leader because ODM is being sold to our political enemies. We must ensure that ODM remains strong, independent, and true to its founding ideals,” Orengo said.

Internal resistance

Drawing parallels with South Africa’s liberation struggle, Orengo invoked Nelson Mandela, saying internal resistance was necessary when a movement strays from its mission and pace of change.

“Like Mandela in 1952, when they felt the African National Congress was not moving fast enough, we must act to bring about change,” he stated.

Orengo emphasised that his stance was aimed at protecting the political legacy of Raila Odinga and ensuring that the party’s achievements are not eroded or diluted by internal divisions or external influence.

“We must make sure that the legacy and achievements of Raila are not destroyed and that the reach of ODM is not diminished,” he said.

He further insisted that ODM, as one of Kenya’s largest political parties, should not be relegated to a subordinate role in any political arrangement.

“ODM cannot become a junior partner to a party that needed ODM. It is not ODM that needed the union; we must remain the dominant party,” Orengo added.

Plot to weaken ODM

In a bold claim, the governor alleged that a “conspiracy” to weaken ODM was hatched at State House even before key party events unfolded.

“I want to say without contradiction that the conspiracy to sell ODM was made at State House. All these things have been discussed and deliberated, and a price paid for them,” Orengo said.

Orengo also distanced certain party figures from the alleged scheme, noting that some leaders were initially not part of what he termed a “cabal pushing the party to the brink”.

He urged ODM members who remain committed to constitutionalism and people-centred politics to rally behind his push for reforms within the party.

“I call upon those in ODM who remain steadfast in truth and in defending the people to join us so that we can make ODM great again,” he said.

Orengo also criticised the emerging practice of political zoning within the party, blaming it on weak leadership and complacency.

“Zoning is coming about because we have weak leaders who want to remain in their comfort zones. Political parties gain strength by working hard and building grassroots support,” he said.

He contrasted current leadership with past efforts by Raila, noting that extensive nationwide mobilisation had once built ODM into a formidable force.

“Raila was all over the country in Turkana, Mandera, Mombasa, among others, building a strong base of activists. But now we have leaders waiting for instructions from State House,” Orengo added.