The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has denied reports
of division among some of its top members.
In a statement, Acting Party leader, Prof Anyang Nyong’o said the rumours are part of a bigger plot to destabilise the party.
He said whoever is behind the claims should that the party is stronger and much more united.
“We are aware of the deliberate rumour-mongering machinery orchestrated by enemies of democracy in our country, whose sole mission is to destabilise our party. Let it be known that ODM is stronger and more united than ever, and we remain steadfast in our pursuit of justice, democracy, and prosperity for all Kenyans.
“To those fueling these baseless rumours, we are ready and prepared to call their bluff,” Nyong’o said.
A few days ago, reports said a simmering row had rocked ODM
amid jitters the party could implode in the absence of Raila Odinga, who is the
front-runner in the Africa Union Commission chairmanship election next month.
It said cracks have appeared in the party that has remained
united for two decades, and the current deal with President William Ruto’s
broad-based government is at the centre of the fallout.
Raila’s key allies, including top ODM officials, it said, are
sharply divided on how the party should approach the next election.
Some insiders alleged Ruto’s administration is unpopular and could easily lose the election even with the support of ODM, a possibility that could sink the political careers of many within the opposition party.
He noted that it is disappointing to see sustained negative twists by sections of the media in reporting matters related to ODM.
Nyong’o, however, insisted that despite these lazy allegations, the party will not be distracted from its mission and vision.
“While we fully support and defend media freedom, which is a cornerstone of our democracy, we equally call for fair treatment by the Fourth Estate.
It is disappointing to note the consistent negative twists by sections of the media in reporting matters concerning our party.
“For instance, our regular and constitutionally mandated meetings are almost always labelled "crisis" meetings, despite their being part of the Party's calendar and aimed at advancing our democratic processes and addressing national issues.”
“We will not be swayed or distracted by baseless and lazy allegations, rumours, or propaganda aimed at undermining our mission and values,” he said.
Nyong’o called on the media to remain fair and accurate in their reporting at all times.
