Tensions rose in Kenya’s Orange Democratic Movement party over Christmas. National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed accused some top officials of trying to pull the party away from the government. He spoke at a public event in his Suna East constituency in Migori County on December 24.
Junet said a senior ODM figure approached him recently. The person suggested leaving the broad-based arrangement with President William Ruto. Instead, they proposed going back to opposition with backing from former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Junet claimed Uhuru offered to inject KSh 1 billion into the party for the 2027 elections.
He pointed fingers at Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi. Junet said they want to “auction” ODM to Uhuru. He argued the plan makes no sense. Raila Odinga, the late party leader, brought ODM into government before his death. Junet insisted the party must stay there.
The claims come amid ongoing splits in ODM. After Raila’s passing earlier in 2025, leaders disagree on the future. Some want to keep ties with Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza. Others push for independence or opposition role. Recent polls show ODM still popular in many areas.
Junet spoke firmly. He said the Luo community supports Ruto now. Leaving government would hurt that. He reminded people Raila lost in 2022 despite Uhuru’s help. No need to repeat mistakes, he added.
Reactions came quick online and from politicians. Former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria defended Uhuru. He told Junet to look elsewhere for ODM problems. Uhuru is not on the list of issues, Kuria said.
Sifuna and Osotsi face criticism from Junet’s side. They have spoken about grassroots decisions for 2027. Some see that as pushing away from Ruto. No direct response from them yet on the KSh 1 billion claim.
ODM joined the broad-based government after talks in 2024. Several members got Cabinet posts. Development projects started in strongholds. But complaints grow about unfulfilled promises. Leaders like Junet want clearer deals for 2027 support.
Uhuru stays quiet most times now. He handed over in 2022 and keeps low profile. No comment from his side on these allegations.
Politics in Nairobi heats up early for 2027. Parties position themselves. ODM holds key votes in several regions. Staying in government or going opposition could shift balances.
Junet loyal to Raila’s last path. He sees government cooperation as practical. Others worry it weakens ODM brand as opposition voice.
The party marks 20 years soon. Internal talks continue. National Executive Committee meets now and then. But public spats like this show cracks.
People in Migori heard Junet directly. Crowds listened as he laid out views. Similar gatherings happen in other counties.
For now, no proof shown for the KSh 1 billion offer. Junet bases it on what he heard. It adds to distrust inside ODM.
Kenyan politics watchers follow closely. Alliances form and break fast. This story fits that pattern.
As holidays continue, more leaders might speak. Christmas messages mix with political ones. ODM future unclear still. Members debate best way forward. Junet’s words stir the pot more.
People searching for ODM news in Nairobi see this trending. It highlights fights over direction and money. The broad-based setup holds for now. But 2027 looms. Decisions come soon.
