Stop doublespeak, Nyanza UDA Party leaders tell Raila

Former police spokesperson Charles Owino(C), address press on 12th September 2023 at Boulevard Hotel in Nairobi.A section of Nyanza Leaders rally behind CS Owalo,PS Omollo and Five expel ODM Mps over gross misconduct.[Edward Kiplimo,Standard]

A section of Nyanza leaders have faulted Azimio la Umoja party leader Raila Odinga of biasness in treating members of Orange Democratic Party (ODM) working with the government.

They have told Odinga to stop what they termed as using the Luo community and ODM party to enrich himself at the expense of the people.

The leaders were responding to the expulsion of five ODM legislators whose loyalty to the party, the leadership argues is questionable.

"We have seen them have a conversation with the government, but on the other end they are expelling MPs from our region who have tried to work with the same government," said Charles Owino, United Democratic Alliance Siaya County Coordinator.

Addressing the media on Tuesday in Nairobi, the leaders challenged the ODM boss to embrace the spirit of the ongoing bi-partisan talks and stop doublespeak.

"We have seen recently people organized to undermine Cabinet Secretary (ICT) Owalo and PS Reymond (Interior) in their own backyard. He should stop intimidating our sons,'' said Martin Ogindo, the chairperson Kenya Fish Marketing Authority Board.

This comes after ODM's National Executive Committee expelled five legislators, terming them party rebels.

The expelled MPs include Elisha Ochieng' Odhiambo (Gem), Caroli Omondi (Suba South), Gideon Ochanda (Bondo) and Phelix Odiwuor alias Jalang'o (Lang'ata).

During Raila's visit to his Nyanza backyard last weekend, he warned that the party will not condone any form of disloyalty.

"Loyalty, Fidelity and Love for one another are the three main reasons political parties grow... ODM shall not condone political infidelity in the name of some members seeking cheap political favours from those in power," Raila said.

The leaders also lauded the Kenya Kwanza's first year of governance, saying that Luo community has benefited as one way the president is executing is Bottom-Up economic plan.

They see this as a new and a positive move from the President who didn't garner massive votes from the region, that according to them, any person ''fighting'' Ruto is seen as their arch rival.

"We have seen the inflation rate reduce and tremendeous development take place in our community since President Ruto took charge,'' said Edick Anyanga, chairperson of Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority Board.

Former Homabay Woman Representative Tabitha Nyandiek said the ODM party should stop meddling in the affairs of legislators who are committed to transform their community.

"ODM have no business castigating leaders who are concerned about the welfare of the people," she said.