ODM Vice Chairperson Urges Members to Avoid Bragging About Broad-Based Government
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party Vice Chairperson and Rarieda Member of Parliament, Otiende Amollo, has cautioned party members against openly boasting about their roles in the current broad-based government.
Speaking on Saturday, November 29, during a church service, Amollo stressed that excessive bragging about being part of the government could undermine the party’s bargaining strength and political influence.
He highlighted that while the Kikuyu community holds significantly more positions within the Kenya Kwanza administration, they remain measured and strategic in how they associate with President William Ruto.
“Look at the numbers: Kikuyus have more positions than we do. They hold eight cabinet positions, while ODM only has two. They have twelve principal secretaries, and we only have four. Yet, they don’t boast about it,” Amollo explained.
The lawmaker warned that constant self-promotion and chest-thumping could reduce the party’s value and weaken its negotiating power ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We must ask ourselves, why are we the ones constantly bragging? Showing too much pride in these positions reduces our political worth.
Our approach should be patience and discipline. For us to join the government meaningfully, we should wait to be invited; this is how we become truly valuable,” he added.
Amollo emphasized that political influence comes when others need you, not when you are seen as needing them. He urged ODM politicians to stay disciplined, follow the party’s principles, and act in ways that strengthen unity.
According to him, a united ODM would compel the government to seek the party’s support as the 2027 elections approach, giving the party stronger negotiating leverage for future positions.
Reflecting on his own approach, Amollo explained that he had intentionally maintained a low profile following the death of ODM leader Raila Odinga, describing the period as extremely challenging for the party.
“Some of you may have wondered why I have not spoken much lately. I chose to stay quiet because we are going through a very difficult period. First, we lost our leader, Raila Odinga, and nobody expected it,” the MP said.
He also criticized a wave of claims by some politicians who allege having had private conversations with the late Raila Odinga, dismissing these narratives as baseless and misleading.
“The only guidance we should follow is what Raila said publicly. Raila made it clear that we are part of this government up to 2027. Beyond that, it is up to us—the living members of this party—to determine our future,” Amollo reiterated, urging ODM members to stay focused, disciplined, and united.
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