ODM chairperson Wanga affirms ODM still in opposition

ODM's National Chairperson Gladys Wanga.[File, Standard]

Orange Democratic Movement Party (ODM) has reiterated its position in the newly formed broad-based government amidst speculations of it fully joining the government.

In a statement, ODM's National Chairperson, Gladys Wanga, dismissed claims of joining the Kenya Kwanza government.

Following the appointment of the new Cabinet Secretaries who are aligned with the party to the broad-based government, Wanga said the members were to help steady the nation.

“In response to a national emergency and the need to steady the nation, ODM agreed to release, in their capacities, the members who had been tapped by the president,” said Wanga.

The former deputy party leaders Ali Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, former national chairman John Mbadi, former secretary for political affairs James  Wandayi, and former member of the party's national elections coordinating committee Beatrice Askul were appointed into the cabinet after the reshuffle.

Homa Bay Governor Wanga reiterated that the members had not joined the government as representatives of the party but as individuals whom the president felt could add value to his administration.

“Consequently, when the president tapped on these members, the party responded to the distress call of the nation and released them to serve the people of Kenya,” she added.

Governor Wanga said the party will continue to play its minority role alongside other parties to push for accountability, transparency, equity, and delivery of services to the people.

She further condemned those questioning Raila Odinga’s commitment to the opposition, claiming they are using the appointed leaders to wrestle the party.

“We wish to reiterate the obvious that House leadership is about numbers in the house, not those in government. As a party, we will not agree to engage with anyone acting in bad faith and with ulterior motives.”

Wanga clarified that ODM still has the highest number of MPs in the coalition and is committed to its ideals and commitments.

“ODM will not accept any continued attempts to use Raila Odinga as a human shield, any continued attempt to arm-twist him into endorsing anybody at this stage, or any continued attempt to use him as an excuse for the failure of leadership in individual constituent parties of Azimio,” she added.

Additionally, Wanga criticised those using Odinga’s bid for African Union Commission chairmanship to  pass ill intentions