Senior leaders from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have publicly endorsed the national dialogue initiative proposed by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, sharply criticizing opposition leaders for rejecting the move. The leaders accused Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his allies of promoting divisive tribal politics and undermining efforts to unify the country.
ODM Stands Firm Behind Raila’s Conclave
Speaking during the launch of the Ratanga Modern Market, ODM national chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, along with MPs Martin Owino (Ndhiwa), Fatuma Mohamud (Migori Woman Rep), Christine Ombaka (Siaya Woman Rep), and Beatrice Ogolla (Nominated Senator), strongly backed Raila’s call for an intergenerational national dialogue to address critical socio-economic and political challenges.
Governor Wanga criticized Gachagua’s recent visit to the U.S., accusing him of exporting tribal politics by meeting only members of his ethnic community and ignoring national representation.
“Gachagua and his group are opposed to unity. They want to divide Kenya along tribal lines,” Wanga stated. “We in ODM have chosen the path of dialogue and national unity.”
Full ODM Support for Government Partnership
Wanga also reaffirmed ODM’s commitment to working with President William Ruto under a broad-based government framework involving Kenya Kwanza.
“We have agreed to work with President Ruto. We have no apologies to make. We will support him and support government programs,” she said.
The remarks reflect ODM’s strategic alignment with the current administration, signaling a new phase of cooperation between Raila and Ruto—traditionally seen as political rivals.
Calls for Youth to Embrace Dialogue
Fatuma Mohamud urged the youth to refrain from street demonstrations and instead support the national conclave proposed by Raila, emphasizing the need for peaceful engagement to achieve progress.
Martin Owino, Beatrice Ogolla, and Christine Ombaka echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the national dialogue initiative is essential for achieving political and economic stability in Kenya.
Idah Odinga Urges Unity for Development
Idah Odinga, the wife of Raila Odinga, also weighed in, urging Luo Nyanza leaders and residents to embrace the government partnership to ensure their region benefits from development.
“This is our time to reap the benefits of the Ruto-Raila relationship. Let us work together and not isolate ourselves,” Idah said.
Context and Political Implications
Raila’s push for a national intergenerational conclave is aimed at fostering inclusive dialogue across all demographics to resolve Kenya’s persistent governance and economic crises. However, the initiative has met resistance from some factions within the opposition, who claim it is a tactic to sanitize the current regime.
Despite the backlash, ODM’s top leadership has maintained that the dialogue is a legitimate path to national unity, economic reform, and broader democratic engagement.