Tensions are rising within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after some party lawmakers openly declared support for President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 elections.
On Sunday, November 2, during a church service in Vihiga attended by President Ruto, ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi directly addressed Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, known as Jalang’o, and Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo.
The two had publicly stated that ODM would back Ruto in the next presidential election.
Osotsi, however, dismissed their claims, saying that ODM has not made any official decision to support the president.
He called the MPs’ statements “personal opinions” and warned that they do not represent the party.
“These MPs are acting outside the party. ODM decisions are made through our official structures. Statements like these should not be taken seriously. The party has committed to supporting a broad-based government, but all members must follow official channels,” Osotsi said.
He urged President Ruto to engage with ODM through the proper party leadership and ignore any pronouncements made by individual MPs.
Osotsi also reminded the public that Jalang’o and Odhiambo had previously been expelled from ODM, meaning they have no authority to speak on behalf of the party.
Osotsi’s position aligns with ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, who recently clarified that ODM is not in any coalition with Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Speaking in Mombasa on November 1, Sifuna warned that any ODM leader pledging support to Ruto without the party’s approval was acting independently and against party rules.
Sifuna emphasized that ODM will continue working with UDA based on a previously agreed ten-point agenda. However, he confirmed that the party is also preparing to field its own presidential candidate in 2027.
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