Senator Oburu Defends Ruto-Raila Alliance, Criticises ODM Dissenters

President William Ruto's recent three-day visit to Migori County has exposed deep fissures within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), the political stronghold of veteran leader Raila Odinga. 

The visit has amplified existing tensions over the broad-based government initiative, a power-sharing arrangement between Ruto and Raila that has sparked significant controversy within ODM ranks. The visit was marked by public displays of discord, as some of Odinga's close allies openly criticised fellow party members who oppose the cooperative arrangement with the ruling administration. Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, Raila's elder brother, voiced his discontent with Siaya Governor James Orengo's resistance to the alliance.

"When my governor stands up and says he is annoyed, I don't know with whom, and claims he just wants to speak the truth, I ask myself: what truth?" 

Senator Oburu questioned, dismissing opponents of the Ruto-Odinga partnership as internal saboteurs. His remarks underscored the frustration among ODM leaders who believe the collaboration is crucial for their constituencies' development. President Ruto has repeatedly emphasised that his agreement with Odinga seeks to address Kenya's long-standing issues of divisive politics. During his Migori address, he reiterated the commitment to inclusivity and equitable resource allocation.

"We agreed with Raila that Kenya should not be divided. We vowed to bring together Kenyans and formed the broad-based government to ensure no region is left behind. There must be equity in sharing resources," President Ruto stated.

While some ODM leaders support the collaboration, scepticism persists within the party. Critics question the arrangement's true impact and motives, concerns the President addressed by cautioning against leaders who exploit division for personal gain. Beyond the political manoeuvring, the visit was heavily influenced by demands for justice in the assassination of Kasipul MP Charles Were. 

A faction within ODM, including prominent figures such as ODM Chair Gladys Wanga, National Assembly Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo, Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, and Senator Moses Kajwang', issued a firm ultimatum regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ODM and UDA. They warned that the agreement would be reconsidered unless credible answers and justice for Were's killers are provided. President Ruto responded directly to these concerns, assuring that the perpetrators would be apprehended and prosecuted. 

"They will have nowhere to hide. We will go after them and their collaborators," he affirmed.

Numerous leaders from the Nyanza region have highlighted the economic benefits resulting from the collaboration with the government. Suna East MP Junet Mohamed commended President Ruto for demonstrating inclusivity, pointing out that some leaders have opposed development projects intended for Nyanza.

"Kenya will only develop as a whole if there is equity and equal distribution of resources. But some are against it," Junet stated, affirming ODM's commitment to cooperation with UDA, emphasizing that multiparty democracy should foster collaboration over competition.

Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda praised the broad-based government as a significant political development, recalling the criticism he faced for initially supporting Ruto and noting that many former opponents now support the government. Governor Ochilo Ayacko stressed the importance of engaging with the national government for the benefit of all Kenyans, stating that despite political differences, cooperation is essential for progress. 

"Out of respect, you've put your differences aside to work for the country. I apologise for my colleagues who are against the agreement," said Mr. Ayacko.

National Assembly Majority Whip Silvanus Osoro echoed these sentiments, noting that Nyanza has received more government-sponsored projects under the broad-based government model. He expresses concerns that some opposition leaders refuse to acknowledge the tangible progress made through the partnership between Ruto and Odinga. During the visit, President Ruto announced several development initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure in Migori County, stating that his administration had disbursed KSh700 million to contractors working on regional projects. 

He also announced an allocation of KSh2 billion for road construction in the upcoming financial year. A key project is the construction of a bypass in Migori town, intended to alleviate traffic congestion. Local leaders welcomed the President's pledge, emphasising the importance of development beyond political affiliations. The President's tour was not without incident. In Kuria West, an individual threw a shoe at the President as he addressed the crowd. Security personnel quickly intervened.