ODM Raises Alarm Over Alleged UDA Infiltration in Western Kenya
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has raised fresh concerns over what it describes as a deliberate plan by the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to infiltrate its grassroots networks in Western Kenya.
ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi said the party has uncovered sustained efforts targeting elected leaders and officials in Vihiga and Kakamega counties.
ODM Leaders Linked to UDA Meetings
Osotsi revealed that several ODM legislators recently attended meetings convened by senior UDA officials. On Tuesday, one such meeting took place at a hotel in Kakamega.
“Our members are being approached to facilitate and take part in upcoming UDA grassroots elections under the false claim that ODM and UDA are in a political cooperation agreement,” Osotsi said in a statement released on Wednesday.
Alleged Illegal Political Moves
In addition, Osotsi accused UDA operatives of forming a regional presidential caucus using ODM members. He said the move violates the Political Parties Act as well as the ODM constitution.
He described the actions as reckless and ill-intentioned. According to him, the timing is especially sensitive following the death of ODM founding leader Raila Odinga.
Warning of a ‘Hostile Takeover’
The ODM deputy party leader warned that the unfolding events amount to a hostile takeover of long-established party structures.
Further, he claimed that some senior ODM officials have faced threats of violence and expulsion. Such threats, he said, target leaders who have questioned what he termed premature and disrespectful actions.
“This is a grand scheme designed to silence dissent within ODM,” Osotsi stated.
ODM Rejects Cooperation Narrative
At the same time, Osotsi dismissed claims of a binding agreement between ODM and UDA.
“There is no legal cooperation framework between ODM and UDA at either the national or grassroots level,” he said.
Instead, he clarified that only a 10-point reform agenda exists. The parties signed it after the mid-2024 Gen Z protests.
Party Reasserts Independence Ahead of 2027
Osotsi accused UDA of attempting to exploit ODM structures built over more than two decades.
“ODM remains an independent political party,” he said. “It is not an appendage of UDA.”
Looking ahead, he noted that the broad-based arrangement does not outline how the parties will approach the 2027 General Election.
Finally, Osotsi urged ODM members to resist what he termed illegal infiltration attempts. He called on them to safeguard the party’s structures as the next election cycle draws closer.
