DNK International By XAVIER LUGAGA
Scoop News Agency
Rarieda MP Otiende Amolo has delivered a fierce and uncompromising message to members of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), declaring that the party must never surrender its identity or settle for what he termed as “crumbs from smaller coalitions.”
Speaking amid growing debate within ODM over its political direction, the Rarieda legislator insisted that the party has historically stood as a titan in Kenyan politics, built on strength, resilience and independence.
“ODM has always been the titan of Kenyan politics. We have never been a party that kneels or begs for crumbs from smaller coalitions,” Amolo said.
He paid tribute to the party’s founding leader, Raila Odinga, describing him as a statesman who built the movement on the foundation of firmness and self-determination.
“Our late leader, Raila Odinga—may he rest in peace—built this movement on the foundation of strength and independence,” Amolo stated.
According to the MP, before his passing, Odinga was categorical that while ODM entered into a broad-based political arrangement for the sake of national stability, it did not dissolve its identity or ambitions.
“He challenged us directly, asking, ‘Who told you ODM will not have a presidential candidate in 2027?’” Amolo recalled.
However, the outspoken legislator warned that the party now faces what he described as an internal crisis. He alleged that some members have grown “too comfortable with the Executive,” compromising ODM’s core principles in exchange for temporary political favor.
“It appears some within our ranks have grown too comfortable with the Executive, trading our core values for temporary favor,” he said.
Amolo further accused unnamed party operatives of undermining internal democracy, claiming that open debate—once the lifeblood of ODM—has been replaced by intolerance and silent control.
“Where we once thrived on vibrant debate, we now see a party controlled by shadows. If you speak a truth that discomforts their sponsors, you are purged. This is not the ODM we built,” he declared.
His remarks are likely to intensify discussions within ODM as the party repositions itself ahead of the 2027 General Election, amid shifting alliances and an evolving national political landscape.
Political analysts say the statement signals simmering tensions within the party and a potential push by a section of leaders to reclaim what they view as ODM’s independent political identity.
[DNK-International@February 25,2026]
