By Iptisam Abdalla, Nairobi
Cracks have emerged in Raila Odinga led ODM party after parliamentarians from his hometurf pledged to work with President William Ruto and his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua.
The MPs led by Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Phelix Odiwour alias Jalang’o (Langata), Prof Tom Ojienda (Kisumu Senator) among others met Ruto at statehouse today and agreed to work with the government of the day.
They were accompanied by ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo and Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo.
After the meeting, Ruto said that leaders should work together regardless of party affiliation for the benefit of the electorates.
“Leaders must join hands, foster coexistence and work together in confronting the challenges facing our country. They must endeavour to lead by example and serve the interest of the people. This is a sure route to a more united and developed Kenya,” posted Ruto on his Facebook Account.
But ODM party through its Communications Director, Philip Etale, accused the lawmakers of trying to undermine Raila.
In a press release sent to newsrooms, Etale said that the MPs have had ‘gone to bed’ with Ruto’s government yet they know that his ascension to power was through the back door.
“Some leaders have elected to undermine the party’s leadership and chosen to go against the will of the people who elected them to the positions they hold,” said Etale
He accused Ruto of planning to disrupt activities by Azimio using its MPs in order to avoid being out on checks by the opposition.
“They have started spending stolen money to hoodwink some of our leaders with the aim of trying to scuttle our activities. Such meetings are aimed at diverting the attention of Kenyans from issues they are faced with, ranging from the high cost of living, unbearable school fees for their children and corruption,” said Etale
ODM has maintained that their movement remains unstoppable despite efforts to put an end to their activities. “This is a people’s movement aimed at defending the constitution of the land. History will judge harshly leaders who want to betray Kenyans by receiving handouts to scuttle the activities of the movement.”
The ODM movement urges Kenyans to ignore selfish leaders who care much about their interests and forget about the citizens’ well-being.
Ends