Lang’ata Member of Parliament, Felix Odiwuor, aka Jalang’o, has reacted to his expulsion from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) that is led by Raila Odinga. The expulsion marked a critical turning point in the career of Jalang’o and four other prominent members of the party. They were unceremoniously ousted by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) in a move that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape.
Jalang’o, along with fellow parliamentarians Elisha Odhiambo, Gideon Ochanda, Caroli Omondi, and Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, found themselves on the wrong side of ODM’s internal politics. This dramatic shake-up was not without consequences, and it has since sparked a flurry of reactions and responses from the expelled members.
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Jalang’o opted for a subtle response. He posted a poignant Bible verse on his social media account, accompanied by a photograph of himself carrying an evidence box to court during the opposition Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party’s presidential election petition. The verse from Corinthians 10:13 that he shared serves as an inspirational message, emphasizing the idea that no trial is insurmountable and that God provides the strength to endure difficulties. This choice of response can be seen as a symbolic gesture, possibly hinting at his intention to face this political setback with resilience and faith. He finished his post by wishing his ODM Party leader Raila Odinga all the best.
Senator Ojienda Response to ODM
Senator Tom Ojienda took to social media to articulate his perspective on the matter. He boldly asserted that his expulsion was a direct result of his close association with President William Ruto. Ojienda made it abundantly clear that he harbored no remorse for his alignment with the Kenya Kwanza government and pledged to persist in his collaboration with President Ruto. This unapologetic stance sent a clear message that he was undaunted by his dismissal from the opposition party that supported his Senate bid.
Other MPs fined
In addition to the five expulsions, Rongo MP Paul Abuor and Uriri counterpart Mark Nyamita, who faced similar allegations, were instead fined Ksh.1 million each, with a 60-day deadline for payment. Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris also found herself reprimanded for her “outright defiance” of the party’s stance on the Finance Bill 2023. She was instructed to issue a written apology to the party within seven days and was fined Ksh.250,000, with a 60-day window for payment. These sanctions further underscore the seriousness with which ODM is handling dissent within its ranks, as the party navigates the complex terrain of Kenyan politics.
The expulsion of these prominent leaders from ODM stemmed from allegations of violating the party’s Constitution and the Political Parties Act of 2011. Their open support for a rival political group and their defiance of party decisions were cited as the grounds for their removal.
Written by James Mutua
