We won't apologise, ODM MPs say

Kisumu, Kenya: Leaders who campaigned against the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) candidate in the recent Homa Bay senatorial by-election have accused party leader Raila Odinga of dictatorship.

This follows Raila's order to John Mbadi, who is the party chairman, on Sunday to take action against leaders who supported rival candidates in the Homa Bay senatorial by-election held recently.

Speaking separately, the leaders said Raila should stop threatening party members with expulsion and instead concentrate on uniting the party ahead of the 2017 General Election.

They also called on him to address challenges facing the party such as flawed party nominations, imposition of leaders on the electorate and hostility towards those who express divergent opinions.

ODM leaders who opposed nomination of Moses Kajwang' as the party's flag-bearer in the election include Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero and MPs George Oner (Rangwe), Millie Odhiambo (Mbita), Agostino Neto (Ndhiwa) and James Rege (Karachuonyo).

Party branch officials Martin Ogindo (chairman) and Charles Were (vice chairman) also threw their weight behind Maendeleo Party of Kenya candidate, Philip Okundi.

Speaking to The Standard, Mr Mbadi maintained the party would only pardon the 'rebels' if they apologise publicly.

"They attacked the party leadership both in public and in social media, demeaning the stature of our party leader," said Mbadi.

NEW OFFICIALS

He said the party plans to reorganise the Homa Bay ODM branch leadership following the death of its Chairman Otieno Kajwang' and his deputy Monica Amolo.

"Because the branch Secretary General James Rege has technically ditched the party, the organising secretary will convene a meeting next week to reconstitute the party branch officials," he said.

Mbadi said the new officials will deliberate on the conduct of the legislators and recommend possible disciplinary actions, which may include removal from key House committees, suspension or expulsion.

However, Ms Odhiambo laughed off the threats, maintaining their decision was informed by the party's decision to hand-pick Kajwang'.

Mr Kidero said he is in ODM to stay, adding that he will always advocate a system where residents are allowed pick leaders of their choice.

Mr Rege also said he will not apologise for supporting Okundi. "I am in ODM and nobody should associate me with any other political party," he said.

 

Mr Oner did not specify whether he was ready to apologise or not, but said he was ready to work with Kajwang'.

Mr Neto said those airing their views are entitled to them and has no time to respond to the accusations.

"They are entitled to their opinions just as I am to mine," said Neto.