The argument revolved around whether Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party is part of the Kenya Kwanza government led by President William Ruto.
The debate began when MP Geoffrey Ruku claimed that ODM is now fully integrated into the government.
He stated that the party's members, alongside other lawmakers, actively participate in parliamentary discussions and decision-making processes. He emphasized that anything important brought before Parliament is carefully considered, and the lawmakers’ priority remains the welfare of the nation.
“ODM is part of the government, and we review everything brought to Parliament. We give our honest opinions and stay true to our oath of office, which is to defend the interests of the country and the people who elected us," said Ruku.
He added that whenever lawmakers, including those from ODM, are invited to State House for consultations, they ask questions and maintain accountability for the nation’s well-being.
However, this statement did not sit well with Edwin Sifuna, who is also the Secretary General of ODM. Sifuna strongly disagreed, maintaining that ODM is not part of the Kenya Kwanza administration. He argued that the government is attempting to involve ODM in their problems while making policy decisions that negatively impact the people of Kenya.
Sifuna accused the government of forcing ODM into a position that they have not agreed to. "Mr. Ruku, you cannot speak for me as the Secretary General of ODM. ODM is not part of this government, but Kenya Kwanza is trying to drag us into their mess," Sifuna stated firmly. He went on to criticize Kenya Kwanza for implementing policies without consulting ODM, giving an example of a recent proposal to mortgage airports in Kenya.
“Nobody asked ODM whether the airport should be mortgaged. This is a policy proposal by Kenya Kwanza, and we do not support it,” Sifuna added.
The exchange reflected the broader tension between ODM and the Kenya Kwanza government. Despite President William Ruto’s recent appointment of five individuals close to Raila Odinga to his Cabinet, ODM has continued to deny any formal association with the government. Sifuna’s remarks reflect ODM’s efforts to distance itself from policies it views as detrimental to the country, further deepening the division between the two political camps.
The ongoing political debate has confused many Kenyans, especially since the appointments by President Ruto seem to indicate some level of cooperation between the two sides. However, ODM maintains that it has not formally joined Kenya Kwanza and remains in opposition to many of its policies.
MP Ruku's remarks appeared to suggest that ODM is playing a role in the government's decision-making processes, but Sifuna’s strong rebuttal clarified that ODM sees itself as outside of the Kenya Kwanza government. The clash on live TV highlighted the growing rift between the two parties and raised questions about the future of ODM’s political strategy.
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