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ODM MPs Oppose Party's Secret Deal for Cabinet Positions in Ruto's Government

A faction of MPs within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has expressed strong disagreement with the party's top leadership following the recent decision to accept four appointments to join the Kenya Kwanza government coalition.

This dissenting faction is led by Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, who is also the Deputy Organising Secretary of ODM, alongside Lugari's Nabii Nabwera, Wilberforce Oundo of Funyala, Innocent Mugabe of Likuyani, and the Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna.

President William Ruto announced the inclusion of several ODM figures in his Cabinet, naming former governors Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, along with MPs Opiyo Wandayi and John Mbadi.

President Ruto nominated ODM Chairman John Mbadi as the new Treasury Cabinet Secretary and appointed Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi as the Energy Cabinet Secretary. 

Additionally, former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho has been named the new Mining Cabinet Secretary, while Wycliffe Oparanya is set to become the Cooperatives Development Minister.

The dissenting MPs said during both the ODM and Azimio Parliamentary Group meetings held on July 12, 2024, at the Jaramogi Foundation in Nairobi, there was no resolution for the party or the coalition to join forces with Ruto's Kenya Kwanza (KK) Party. 

They expressed shock at the announcement of ODM members appearing on the list of cabinet appointees.

"This decision by some of our leaders to join a government that has been indicted by the Kenyan people reflects poorly on a party that has always stood with the people," Amisi stated.

He emphasized that the appointments do not reflect the diversity of ODM, lacking considerations of gender, age, and regional balance.

The MPs reiterated the party's stance, as communicated by Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, that the decision by the four members was personal and not representative of the party's position. 

"We call for swift action by the party leadership to replace the four within the party and their parliamentary roles to ensure continuity," said Innocent Mugabe

Furthermore, the dissenting MPs vowed to subject their four comrades to a thorough vetting process in Parliament, questioning their suitability and competence for the positions they have taken up.
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