NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is on the spot, for allegedly favouring his Luo Community within the Nyanza region- in his new working deal with President William Ruto.
Some leaders from his part, the Orange Democratic Movement, say their leader has been quick to donate government positions to Luo Nyanza leaders, at the expense of others within the region- specifically those from the Kisii Community.
Nyaribari Masaba MP Daniel Manduku has voiced dissatisfaction Odinga, saying he must reconsider his approach.
“In Kisii, where I come from, we have an issue with ODM. Raila Odinga has given all the party positions to his Luo tribesmen. We have supported Raila for many years, but we have nothing to show for it,” Manduku said during an interview on Citizen TV’s breakfast show.
Manduku reiterated his loyalty to ODM’s original ideals—human rights, democracy, transparency, and advocacy for ordinary citizens.
However, he highlighted a disconnect between these principles and the actions of some party members who have aligned themselves with President William Ruto’s broad-based government without a formal party consensus.
“Those colleagues of our party who joined the government did so on their own volition. There was never a single meeting of the party to decide to join the broad-based government led by His Excellency William Ruto,” he explained. “They are benefiting on their own, while the party has not gained from these appointments.”
MP Daniel Manduku: In Kisii, where I come from, we have an issue with ODM. Raila Odinga has given all the party positions to his Luo tribesmen. We have supported Raila for many years, but we have nothing to show for it #CitizenDayBreak @AyubAbdikadir
The MP emphasized that Kisii’s grievances stem from a perceived lack of representation in ODM’s leadership and government roles, despite their significant electoral support for the party.
“We people of Gusi have supported Raila Odinga for many years. We have nothing to show for it, even in the latest appointments he has made,” Manduku added.
Manduku hinted at a possible mass exodus of Kisii members from ODM if the situation does not change.
“We are coalescing and talking as Gusi Nation with the ultimate focus on having a mass walkout of the ODM if things don’t change,” he warned.
Despite repeated efforts to address these concerns with the party, Manduku reported receiving only unfulfilled promises.
“So far, nothing. Just promises,” he noted, underscoring the growing frustration within the Kisii community.
