Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has fired a pointed message at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, urging him to stop meddling in ODM affairs and instead concentrate on his own party, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).

Speaking during a televised interview on Wednesday night, December 3, 2025, Passaris emphasised that ODM, which has been a major political force in Kenya for over two decades, is resilient and well-structured despite the passing of its iconic leader, Raila Odinga.

“With due respect to the former Deputy President, he should focus on his own party and leave ODM alone. ODM has been tried and tested; it has been around for 20 years,” Passaris said.

ODM Magarini and Kasipul triumph

She highlighted the party’s recent electoral victories in Magarini and Kasipul, underscoring that ODM remains united and well-led.

“ODM is a strong party, and we have proved that by the recent wins that we had in Magarini and Kasipul. There are a lot of people who are trying to create this notion of division. Raila died, yes, and there would be some shock waves, but we are more than united. We have good leadership. ODM has structures, has its constitution, and has its own way of working. Our structures and membership are so strong, and our leadership is so focused,” she stated.

Selling ODM party

Passaris also challenged Gachagua’s claim that ODM leaders, including National Chairperson Gladys Wanga, had “sold the party” to President William Ruto.

She further noted that ODM remains focused on governance and its role in the broad-based government, urging political rivals to respect the party’s autonomy.

“I feel like he should focus more on his own political party, not on ODM. He is saying that Gladys Wanga and other leaders have sold the party. How can you sell a party? Can you sell ODM without its members? I think he is insecure about the fact that we are in a broad-based government,” Passaris said.