Editor's Review

ODM has issued a statement confirming divisions within the party over the BBI bill.

ODM on Monday, May 3, issued a statement confirming divisions within the party over the Constitution Amendment Bill 2020 also known as the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI).

Communications Director Philip Etale stated that some senior leaders in the party had differing opinions over some parts of the bill.

He, however, maintained that the leaders still held the same stand on voting for the BBI bill as it is.

"For the past one week there has been difference in opinion among members of our party, the legislative wing with regard to the ongoing debate on the BBI bill which seeks to amend the 2020 constitution through a popular initiative," the statement read in part.

“In a democratic party like the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) members have to disagree and later agree on principle especially when it comes to sensitive matters as the constitution review.

“ As a party, we wish to assure our members, supporters and the general public that our legislators are only differing on substance but have a common agreement that they will all pass the Bill on the voting day,” the statement adds.

ODM has urged Kenyans not to look at the differences in opinion as a split in the party but as a demonstration of maturity in a democratic space.

Siaya Senator James Orengo and Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo had been accused of betraying the party after they supported the declaration of 70 additional constituencies as unconstitutional.