The Orange Democratic Party (ODM) has dismissed reports that there are divisions in the party after Raila Odinga announced his desire to contest for the African Union Commission Chairmanship position.
In a statement on Thursday, February 22, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna claimed that the media has been promoting false narratives over divisions in the opposition party over succession.
The Nairobi Senator noted that the ODM Party has remained the most consequential political organization in multiparty Kenya since its inception adding that the party will make it public when the time comes for transitions in the party leadership comes.
“This is no mean feat but has been achieved by a strong leadership foundation, vibrant party structures, credible values, and a strong party membership base. These virtues form the basis upon which any succession or filling of vacant leadership positions is conducted. If a time ever comes for transitions within the party's leadership, we will make it public,” said Sifuna.
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He pointed out that Raila is yet to make pronouncements regarding his local political future, and remains the ODM Party Leader.
Further Sifuna urged ODM members not to fall for false narratives saying the party remains strong, focused on its mandate, and working for the masses in its role as the people's watchman.
“The biggest issue afflicting Kenyans today is the high cost of living and not party political succession. We understand politics sells, especially anything revolving around the Rt Hon Odinga, but we urge that the media takes only the truth to the Market,” Sifuna added.
The statement comes after reports claimed that there is a split between former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya and former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho over the Raila succession.
