ODM leaders await Raila's next political move amid UDA talks
Leaders from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have declared their readiness to follow any political direction that party leader Raila Odinga decides regarding the party’s future.
Suna East MP and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed revealed that Raila is currently consulting all ODM party organs on whether to work with President William Ruto’s UDA party or chart an independent political path.
“Our leader is Raila Amolo Odinga, and we take orders from him. Every party must evaluate its strategic interests, and ODM will make decisions based on its objectives and the aspirations of our supporters,” Junet stated.
He emphasized that ODM is a political movement aimed at securing power, not a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO).
“ODM defends the rights of citizens, opposes abductions, and fights against injustices, but our primary goal is to seek political power. No one can dictate the direction we take,” he asserted.
Junet urged party supporters to remain steadfast, assuring them that they should not be intimidated as the party follows Raila’s guidance.
Following Raila’s unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, the ODM leader has been engaging with President William Ruto in a broader government collaboration. Ruto had backed Raila’s AUC candidacy in the February 2025 election held in Addis Ababa.
“We must thank President William Ruto for his support in Baba’s campaign for the AUC seat,” Homa Bay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga stated.
Wanga reaffirmed the party’s unwavering loyalty to Raila, saying, “If Baba says march left, we go left. If he says march right, we go right. If he says fire, we fire.”
Kasipul MP Charles Ongondo Were also expressed his readiness to follow Raila’s lead. “Tell Baba that the people of Kasipul constituency will accept and support whatever decision he makes,” the MP said.
The leaders were speaking on Monday in Oyugis during the launch of the Kasipul Constituency Traders’ Association Sacco, where they helped raise KSh 2.6 million to support local traders in expanding their businesses.