The absence of a handful of ODM renegade leaders from the Kisumu Azimio protest at Moi stadium drew criticism from their party members.
The rebel Lawmakers explained their absence by saying they met with President William Ruto to discuss regional development.
Their assertion, however, did not prevent party leaders from accusing them of being traitors.
Gladys Wanga, governor of Siaya and Homa Bay, came out against the rebel leaders, stating that traitors to the Luo people would not be tolerated, while Kisumu governor Anyan’g Nyong’o said that those who deserted Raila would not prosper.
Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, who was noticeably missing from the meeting, was singled out by ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna.
Sifuna said that they had asked the senator to explain his absence, to which he replied that he had gone to the State House to search for growth.
Meanwhile, former Kakamega governor Wycliffe Oparanya has requested that Raila Odinga allow him to begin the process of expelling the rebels from the party.
Instead, he suggested that people in the affected constituencies elect loyal leaders to parliament.
After meeting with President William Ruto, the rebel leaders declared their support for him, and party authorities have stated their determination to expel them from the party.
Oparanya blasted the rebel Lawmakers for often visiting Raila’s residence while seeking the party’s ticket.
He said that the process of expulsion from the party will begin soon.
