Orange Democratic Movement Party’s Statement
On Tuesday, February 7, the Orange Democratic Movement Party (ODM) released a statement after some of its members, including Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwour (Jalang’o), defected from party leader Raila Odinga to President William Ruto. The Communications Director, Philip Etale, explained that the meeting was not unexpected as the party had been monitoring their activities for months.
Betrayal by Some Leaders
Etale explained that since Raila’s victory was stolen in the General Election, some leaders had chosen to undermine the party and go against the will of the people who elected them. He accused the government of bribing opposition members to keep them from checking and balancing it.
Defending the Movement
Three months ago, the Azimio la Umoja movement began rallies to reclaim its victory, but Etale knew the enemy would not sit pretty. The government was spending plundered money to fool some of their leaders, but such meetings only distract Kenyans from their problems, such as the high cost of living, unbearable school fees, and corruption, he said. Etale urged Raila’s followers and the country to ignore these selfish leaders, as the movement remains unstoppable.
Condemnation by Migori Senator
Migori Senator Eddy Gicheru Oketch also condemned the leaders who sold out the residents who campaigned and voted for them.
State House Meeting
After the State House meeting, Jalang’o revealed that he had met with the Head of State to discuss development projects in his constituency. State House, Nairobi, later announced that the politicians had pledged their loyalty to the government, but the tweet was later retracted.
