The national chairperson of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), John Mbadi, issued a stern warning that the party will not forgive those who betray its support during elections.
Speaking at a gathering in Migori led by ODM party leader Raila Odinga, Mbadi expressed disappointment in individuals who, after receiving the party’s backing for elective positions, later turned against it.
According to Mbadi, the party is not open to welcoming back those who have betrayed its trust, emphasizing that only loyal members are sought after.
This statement came as a response to a perceived trend where individuals supported by the ODM abandoned the party upon securing their elected positions.
In a related development, Joseph Olala, the ODM secretary in Migori county, urged the party leadership to refrain from awarding direct party tickets to candidates in the upcoming elections without thorough vetting.
Olala highlighted concerns about several elected leaders who had defected from the ODM and were granted direct tickets without proper scrutiny.
Emphasizing the need for a comprehensive assessment, Olala suggested that the party should consider factors such as loyalty before granting tickets to its members.
He stressed that the ODM must adopt a more cautious approach in selecting candidates to ensure the party’s unity and integrity.
The call for loyalty and scrutiny comes in light of instances where Uriri Member of Parliament Mark Nyamitta and his Rongo counterparts were given direct tickets by the ODM to contest in the 2022 elections.
These appointments raised concerns within the party about the allegiance and commitment of its elected representatives.