Ababu Namwamba, Paul Otuoma reconcile, vow to work together

ODM Secretary General Ababu Namwamba (right) joins hands as a sign of unity with Funyula MP Paul Otwoma during Samia Cultural day held at Bumbe beach in Busia County. (Photo: Benjamin Sakwa/Standard)

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Ababu Namwamba and vice chair Paul Otuoma have reconciled. The two, reportedly reached a truce to foster party unity. Speaking during the Samia Cultural Festivals at Bumbe, Funyula constituency, the Budalang’i legislator said he had no personal differences with his ‘brother’ Otuoma.

“I am sorry for those who wished to capitalise on our differences. They are doomed because I will work together with my brother for the benefit of the party and our people,” he said. Ababu urged Kenyans to develop positive perception of politics, which according to him, would propel development and improve the lives of Kenyans.

“We are formulating structures to see us capture the country’s leadership come 2017. We, therefore, must work with one another to realise this dream,” he said.

Otuoma, who was the host, said he only had issues with Ababu following the party’s February botched elections and the recently released new officials list. He, however, said, all those are past issues and he is looking forward to working with Ababu to push for the interest of the party and Kenyans.

“There is no personal differences between me and Ababu. As ODM leaders, we are striving to unite members for the good of the party,” said Otuoma.

He said they would work together to ensure the party retains back its confidence among Kenyans and ensure ODM is in safe hands to clinch presidency in the next elections. Differences between the two erupted during the party’s botched elections in February as they were in different and competing camps.

Ababu was contesting for secretary general seat while Otuoma was vying for the chairman’s position. When the party harmonised a list of its officials to avoid fall out, Ababu was picked the party’s secretary general while Otuoma the second vice chairman which again sparked their differences as Otuoma was opposed to the list.