Tag: ODM

Sifuna’s Kakamega Rally Refuses To Fold Despite Teargas, State Push-Back

NAIROBI, Kenya Feb 21- In politics, opposition rallies rarely begin with anticipation of speeches. They begin with suspense on whether actually they will materialize.

On Saturday, the Linda Mwananchi rally at Amalemba grounds in Kakamega led by embattled Orange Democratic Movement secretary general Edwin Sifuna was clouded by uncertainties.

In the hours before the rally, Western Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud told journalists that police had not been formally notified about the gathering and had only seen posters circulating on social media.

“We will use all force to maintain peace. We will not accept lawlessness here. We cannot accept our country to go to the dogs,” he said.

On 19^th February, Sifuna has confirmed that he has officially notified Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen about his upcoming Linda Mwanachi Kakamega rally.

Speaking on the floor of the Senate, he said that he had already sent the notification for the Kakamega rally to the Kakamega OCPD and that he was going to send the same notification to the Senate WhatsApp group.

“By the way, that individual called Murkomen is still on the Senate WhatsApp group because he is a former senator. In fact, I have taken advantage of that. Yesterday I saw him say that he was not aware that we were going to Kitengela,”

“I have sent a notification on the Kakamega rally that we have made to the OCPD of Kakamega to his WhatsApp number, and I am going to send it to the Senate WhatsApp group because he reads our messages there,” noted Sifuna.

In a move that would actually derail the crowd from attending the political rally, Mahoud further claimed that security agencies had received intelligence suggesting that some individuals planning to attend the rally could be armed.

“We have every kind of information. We are even told people who are coming from as far as Nairobi who are armed with rifles. That is what we have been told. That group who want to make a rally, they are armed, they said they don’t need the police,” he alleged.

Teargas Disruption

Even before the Linda Mwananchi Movement leaders made their way to Amalemba grounds, teargas were already billowing.

Teargas canisters were lobbed at event organisers ahead of the rally scheduled in Kakamega County today.

Tension began building early in the morning as small groups of rowdy youths were seen uprooting and setting ablaze road reflectors near Amalemba Grounds, where the rally was scheduled to take place.

At around 9:00am, a teargas canister was lobbed toward the venue, triggering panic among sections of the crowd. Some attendees responded by hurling stones, escalating the standoff.

As the situation grew volatile, groups of young men organised themselves along key access roads leading to the grounds. They mounted informal barricades, stopping and inspecting vehicles headed toward the rally site in what appeared to be an attempt to control who accessed the area.

Elsewhere in Kakamega town, rival political energies were also on display. Youths allied to the broad-based government cruised through the streets atop trucks and motorbikes, chanting slogans and waving placards emblazoned with the words “Two Tutam,” adding another layer of theatre to an already charged morning.

Sea of Humanity

Even so, Sifuna led the Linda Mwananchi team to a massive turnout in Kakamega, drawing a sea of supporters to the town ahead of their highly anticipated rally.

Sifuna’s convoy wound its way through Kakamega town en route to Amalemba Grounds, with throngs of supporters lining the streets, chanting slogans and waving party flags.

The atmosphere was electric, as Sifuna and Babu Owino stood atop their vehicles, greeting the crowd while music blared from speakers. The popular anthem “Jeshi la Baba” sent supporters into a frenzy, with cheers and waves echoing across the streets.

He was joined by a host of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) stalwarts, including James Orengo Caleb Amisi Richard Onyonka Brian Lishenga Jack Wamboka and Majimbo Kalasinga.

Undettered Crowd

But the smooth flow of the rally would soon be disrupted as soon as the Nairobi Senator took to the podium. Despite Siaya Governor James Orengo and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi having uninterrupted speech to the crowd, the rally was almost disrupted when Sifuna took to the podium.

Teargas canisters arced into the gathering, landing near the stage and within the crowd. White clouds spread quickly across the dias.

Sifuna had barely risen to offer his opening remarks when canisters landed near the dais, sending thick white plumes billowing into the crowd. Supporters scattered in panic, running in all directions to escape the choking fumes.

Amid the chaos, Sifuna vowed the meeting would proceed despite the disruption.

“This meeting will not be disrupted as they did in Kitengela. We will extinguish it like bhang in prison. This meeting will not be disrupted, it will not end,” he declared.

He urged supporters to remain calm and avoid confrontation with police.

“Young people, don’t throw stones at them. We will extinguish this teargas like bhang and continue with this meeting,” he said.

Soon after the Supporters regrouped as others tried to attack individual suspected to disrupt the meeting by lobbying teargas.

Sifuna urged supporters not to throw stones, not to retaliate, and not to scatter. The meeting, he insisted, would continue. The ODM Secretary General insisted if the aim was to disperse them, that wouldn’t happen.

Kitengela Mayhem

Just days earlier in Kitengela, a similar gathering had ended in chaos after police fired teargas and live bullets as a young man lost his life.

Chaos erupted on Sunday when police fired teargas at a gathering in Kitengela as Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and other leaders addressed supporters.

The disruption came shortly after Sifuna introduced fellow leaders who had joined him at the rally. Despite the upheaval, Sifuna later thanked the residents of Kitengela for turning out and urged them to remain steadfast.

“Thank you, Kitengela. Despite all the harassment, intimidation, and violence this morning, you showed up. They first destroyed our dais and sound equipment, and now state operatives have teargassed a peaceful assembly, bringing it to an abrupt end. We shall not relent,” Sifuna said.

When the first teargas canister was thrown, Sifuna called on the crowd to stay calm while trying to figure out who was disrupting the rally. More canisters followed, sending crowds scattering in all directions. Boda boda riders and residents quickly sought safety as the situation became chaotic.

The rally ended abruptly, with leaders leaving the scene while supporters dispersed across the town.

Sifuna condemned the heavy-handed response, saying security officers and hired personnel used excessive force against peaceful attendees. He also vowed to pursue justice for Vincent Ayomo, who was allegedly shot dead during the gathering.

“We will pursue justice for his family and ensure those responsible for his death are held accountable,” Sifuna said.

February 21, 2026
Oketch Salah Strikes Back At Ruth Odinga In Explosive Public Feud

Migori businessman Oketch Salah has fired back at Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, sparking a bitter public feud that has sent shockwaves through political circles. The row intensified after Ruth publicly disowned Salah, questioning his ties to the late Raila Odinga and distancing both the Odinga family and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) from his political activities.

Salah responded in a fiery statement on X on February 19, 2026, defending his close association with Raila and accusing Ruth of spreading inaccurate claims.

The clash highlights growing tensions over Raila’s legacy, party leadership, and the influence of outsiders in ODM politics. Salah insists his involvement was personal, tied solely to Raila, while Ruth maintains he has no authority to speak on family or party matters.

The Oketch Salah-Ruth Odinga feud has now moved beyond private disagreements into a highly public battle over legacy, loyalty, and political influence within ODM. Both sides are determined not to back down, leaving the party and the public to witness one of the most bitter political exchanges in recent Kenyan history. [Photo//Courtesy]

Oketch Salah-Ruth Odinga Feud Turns Fierce With Blistering Accusations

Oketch Salah wasted no time addressing Ruth Odinga directly. In his X statement, he described her public remarks as “unfortunate” and “inaccurate,” insisting that his connection was always with the late Raila Odinga alone.

“Let me be clear from the outset: if you do not wish to associate with me, that is entirely your choice. I have never forced myself into your life,” Salah wrote. “My relationship was with your late brother, Baba, and that relationship stood on its own. It had nothing to do with any other member of the family.”

Salah also provided specific examples of his support for the Odinga family. He claimed he was instrumental in bringing Ruth to India at Raila’s invitation, arranging her business-class travel and coordinating her stay. Salah explained that he returned to Kenya early only because Raila asked him to attend his son’s wedding, which had been repeatedly postponed due to the elder Odinga’s health.

He stressed that his political engagement was driven by Raila’s instructions, not personal ambition. “I come from a well-established business family. I am self-sufficient, and whatever I have done for ODM was at Baba’s request,” he said.

Salah also reminded Ruth that ODM belongs to the Kenyan people, not a single family. He warned against internal fights, highlighting the responsibilities of party leaders such as Dr. Oburu Odinga. He cautioned that disrespecting leadership could have consequences for her in the future.

Ruth Odinga Rejects Salah’s Claims

Ruth Odinga struck back a day earlier, distancing herself from Salah and questioning the depth of his relationship with the Odinga family. Speaking on local TV on February 18, 2026, she said she had met Salah only three times.

“I really don’t know him that well. I am one of the people surprised that he says he knows me,” she said. She criticized Salah for revealing private conversations with her late brother, saying, “If at all he was my brother’s friend, he should have had the integrity not to disclose private talks.”

Ruth also requested space for the family during their grief and emphasized that Salah has no right to speak on behalf of ODM since he is not a party member. She disputed his claims of being present at Raila’s final moments in India, asserting that she was with her brother until the end.

Family Backlash Intensifies

The feud extends beyond Ruth. Earlier, East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Winnie Odinga condemned Salah’s claims about Raila’s final moments, calling them lies and questioning his intentions. She said his statements crossed a line, veering into deliberate misinformation.

“He should be rushed to either Mathare or DCI with immediate effect,” Winnie Odinga said, expressing outrage over Salah’s public assertions.

Salah, meanwhile, has continued to defend his narrative. He claimed he was with Raila from the onset of his illness until his last moments, describing their relationship as deeply personal and emotionally significant. He framed his statements not as a political move but as a tribute to Raila’s memory, insisting on honesty without fear or distortion.

Oketch Salah, a prominent businessman from Migori, gained attention in Raila’s last months for sharing updates about the elder statesman’s health. While some family members and party officials reject his claims, Salah remains steadfast, emphasizing his loyalty to Raila and asserting that his role was personal, not political.

February 19, 2026
‪Boyd Were Wins Kasipul ODM Ticket‬

OYUGIS, Kenya – Boyd Were, the son of the late Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, has won the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket for the upcoming Kasipul by-election, securing an emphatic victory in the party primaries.

Were garnered 18,210 votes, far ahead of his closest challenger Newton Ogada who received 3,037. Daniel Okindo Majiwa followed with 621 votes, while Dr. Adel Ottoman and George Otieno Ajo Mbuta trailed with 463 and 396 votes respectively.

The results were announced Thursday evening by Returning Officer Felix Ngala at the Rachuonyo South Sub-county tallying center in Oyugis.

The outcome positions Boyd as the frontrunner to succeed his father, whose death earlier this year created the vacancy.

His win reflects both the enduring influence of the Ong’ondo Were family in Kasipul and the strength of ODM’s grassroots support in Homa Bay County.

ODM National Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga congratulated Boyd, urging rivals to close ranks behind him.

“The people of Kasipul have spoken, and they have chosen a candidate they believe will champion their interests,” she said, calling for unity as the party now shifts focus to the by-election.

Boyd’s candidacy is widely seen as a continuation of his father’s legacy, but it also sets the stage for his own political journey.

With ODM’s dominance in the region, his main challenge will be to consolidate support and translate the emotional backing into a decisive win when voters head to the polls.

September 24, 2025
‘You Cannot Alter History and Erase Him’ – Martha Karua Defends Raila, Hails His Key Role in Second Liberation

People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has defended former Prime Minister Raila Odinga against accusations from some Kenyans that he did not play a significant role in the country’s push for multipartyism.

Although they may have political differences, Karua asserts that Odinga’s contributions are well-documented.

“Even though we differ politically truth be said Raila Odinga was an integral part of the 2nd liberation alongside James Orengo and others,” she stated.

Karua believes that Raila’s critics should acknowledge this part of history and recognize the sacrifices he has made along the way.

“We cannot change history he was detained, jailed and like James Orengo forced to flee Kenya for a while,” she explained.

The PLP leader, who was Raila’s running mate in the 2022 Presidential Elections, emphasized that democracy involves having divergent views and sometimes agreeing to disagree on issues.

She stated that Raila has played his role and urged others to contribute as well to improve Kenya.

“Any one of us has a role to make Kenya a better place for ourselves and generations to come so let each do their bit,” she stated.

Social media has been awash with reports that former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and his long-term ally, Siaya Governor James Orengo, were not reading from the same page.

The claims were exacerbated after professionals from the Luo community threatened to sponsor an impeachment motion against Orengo for criticising the broad-based government.

The discussion regarding the said fallout extended to Saturday, April 19, 2025, with Kenyans on various social media platforms wading into the debate.

Karua was forced to add her voice to the matter after some social media users claimed Raila did not fight for the country’s liberation.

Threats on Orengo

Orengo has dominated headlines in recent times after he called out senior politicians over what he termed as psychophancy to the government.

His sentiments did not augur well with Luo professionals who claimed that he was sabotaging the newly found bromance between Raila and President William Ruto.

Nyanza professionals organisation dubbed Ramogi Professional Caucus reiterated that the community (Luo) is united behind the Ruto-Raila pact for development.

“We want to tell Siaya Governor James Orengo that we are not happy with his remarks at Oduor’s burial on Saturday. As a community, we are united and fully support the broad-based government. This is the only way we can ensure we develop economically. We cannot be in opposition forever,” Joshua Nyamori, RPC Chairman, says.

“If he continues like this, we will even impeach him,” Polycarp Ochilo, a member, added.

Raila’s Say

Meanwhile, ODM party leader Raila Odinga has urged members to engage in discussions about the future of the party without resorting to personal attacks.

In his appeal, Raila called on ODM leaders to demonstrate “decorum, civility, restraint, and respect for one another” as they deliberate on the party’s current state and future direction.

His call comes in response to apparent divisions arising from the party’s decision to unite and collaborate with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance.

However, he downplayed claims that the ongoing discussions threaten the future of ODM.

“Mr. Odinga believes the discussions are not unique to ODM and are in line with similar such engagements that have gone on in equally strong parties in established democracies,” stated Dennis Onyango, Raila Odinga’s spokesperson.

Onyango confirmed that the former Prime Minister is closely monitoring the ongoing discussions regarding the party’s relationship with the Kenya Kwanza administration. “He is also paying keen attention to the various interpretations of the Memorandum of Understanding with the United Democratic Alliance,” he added.

April 20, 2025
Sakaja Hints at Joining ODM as Raila Assigns Him to Take Charge in His Absence

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja on Monday hinted at plans to defect from President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party to Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party ahead of the next election.

Sakaja made the revelation during a prayer event in support of Odinga, who is vying for the African Union Commission Chairperson seat.

In what appeared to be a clear endorsement of Raila, the ODM leader urged Nairobi leaders to remain united and entrusted Governor Sakaja with the responsibility of overseeing the city’s political affairs in his absence.

Referring to Sakaja as his son, Raila assured ODM members in the capital that they should remain steadfast while he is away, as the governor would take charge of political matters.

“I want Nairobi to remain united and strong. My son here will take charge,” Raila said, pointing at Sakaja during the prayer meeting at the Bomas of Kenya.

Senior ODM Party officials, including Chairperson Gladys Wanga and Makadara MP George Aladwa, who also serves as the Nairobi ODM chairperson, praised Sakaja for collaborating closely with the Orange Party.

“I want to thank, in a special way, our Governor of Nairobi for standing with our party despite not being a member. I kindly urge him to leave UDA and join ODM so that we can move forward together,” said Aladwa.

Governor Wanga, on her part, thanked Sakaja for his role in organizing the event and acknowledged his alignment with ODM, which enjoys significant support in Nairobi County.

“We thank Sakaja for standing with ODM in Nairobi. As Aladwa has said, I urge Sakaja to seriously consider joining us,” Wanga stated.

Sakaja, a member of the ruling UDA party, attended the event, which was organized by women affiliated with ODM. During the gathering, he announced plans to convene a meeting with ODM women leaders in Nairobi to clarify his political direction ahead of the 2027 elections.

Quoting a Swahili proverb, Sakaja said, “Dalili ya mvua ni mawingu na mwenye macho haambiwi tazama.” Loosely translated, this means, “The signs of rain are heavy clouds, and those with eyes do not need to be reminded to see them. I must respond to the requests made to me. We are together in this.”

Potential Fallout Within ODM?

Should Sakaja join ODM as suggested, his decision could spark internal tensions within the party. Three weeks ago, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino expressed dissatisfaction with Sakaja’s leadership, accusing him of poor governance and urging ODM not to support him.

Speaking during a public address, Babu criticized the governor’s performance, citing alleged corruption, inefficiency in service delivery, and a lack of progress in key areas.

“Nairobi deserves better. Despite a budget of over Sh40 billion, the county is collecting less revenue and performing poorly in service delivery. Governor Sakaja’s leadership has failed to meet the expectations of Nairobi residents,” Babu stated.

The outspoken MP also addressed rumors about Raila potentially endorsing Sakaja for a second term.

“Baba should know better. Sakaja has always opposed Raila’s presidency and consistently voted for his opponents since 2007. He is not one of us; he comes with dirty hands,” Babu said, alluding to Sakaja’s past political affiliations.

Babu further accused Sakaja of engaging in public relations stunts, including accompanying Raila on foreign trips as part of his campaign for the African Union Chairperson seat.

“These trips are mere theatrical PR gimmicks. Nairobians need a leader focused on solving local issues, not globetrotting for photo ops,” he added.

The MP hinted at growing discontent among political aspirants eyeing the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the next election.

“Over 20 candidates are preparing to challenge the current regime because of its failures. Baba should recognize those who genuinely love and support him, like myself,” Babu said.

This public critique comes amid mounting concerns over Nairobi’s governance, with residents expressing frustration over persistent issues such as waste management, insecurity, and stalled projects.

February 10, 2025
ODM Power Play and Strategy to Cement Dominance in Western Kenya
ODM is on a mission to tighten its grip on Western Kenya, countering President Ruto’s growing influence in the region.

With a mega convention, grassroots mobilization, and new offices, the party is making bold moves to secure its dominance.

As internal rifts threaten unity, ODM leaders are working to present a strong front ahead of 2027. Can the party outmaneuver UDA’s surge and maintain its stronghold?

ODM Moves Aggressively to Secure Dominance in Western Kenya

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is doubling down on its efforts to solidify its grip on Western Kenya. This strategic push comes just days after President William Ruto toured the region, raising concerns within ODM about losing ground to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

To counter Ruto’s growing influence, ODM has mapped out a series of grassroots meetings and high-level conventions designed to strengthen party unity and mobilize support.

ODM leaders are now focusing on a February 28 mega convention expected to attract over 10,000 delegates.

The party will also open a new office in Bungoma, signaling its intent to challenge Ford Kenya’s dominance in the county. With internal disagreements simmering over ODM’s stance on Kenya Kwanza, the party is also working to present a united front ahead of the 2027 elections.

ODM’s Multi-Level Strategy to Maintain Political Stronghold

ODM is taking a multi-pronged approach to secure Western Kenya, ensuring its dominance remains unchallenged.

The strategy involves high-level meetings, grassroots mobilization, and strengthening internal unity.

High-Stakes Meetings and Key Events

The party has outlined a series of critical meetings to reinforce its position in the region:
- February 9: ODM’s top brass will meet Western Kenya leaders to strategize ahead of the mega convention.
- February 27: A key leadership meeting will take place in Bungoma County, where the party plans to open a new office.
- February 28: The much-anticipated mega convention in Busia will bring together over 10,000 delegates from the region.
These gatherings aim to counter the recent UDA-ANC merger and President Ruto’s attempts to woo ODM’s traditional voter base.

Grassroots Mobilization to Counter UDA’s Surge

ODM is actively engaging its grassroots networks to counter the increasing presence of UDA in the region.

The party is organizing meetings with branch leaders, aiming to reassure supporters and reaffirm its commitment to Western Kenya’s development.

“We are rolling out a series of activities to consolidate ODM’s support base. This includes grassroots engagements and leadership forums to strengthen party structures,” said ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi.

Internal Rifts and the Push for Unity

Despite its strategic moves, ODM faces internal tensions over its relationship with Kenya Kwanza. Some members have aligned themselves with President Ruto’s administration, causing division within the party.

Osotsi, however, clarified that ODM has no formal agreement with Kenya Kwanza. “As of now, ODM has no official deal with Ruto’s government. If anything changes, we will be transparent with our members,” he affirmed.

Busia Governor Paul Otuoma has cautioned against public disagreements, urging members to resolve issues internally to avoid weakening the party.

With ODM ramping up efforts to secure Western Kenya, the battle for political dominance in the region is heating up.

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether ODM can maintain its stronghold or if UDA’s influence will continue to grow.
February 3, 2025
Orengo Sounds Warning To ODM Members In Govt Against Turning Into Ruto’s Sycophants

Siaya County Governor James Orengo has urged leaders in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to uphold the party’s core identity and values.

Orengo made the remarks during the funeral of Roseline Odede, the chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), held in Uyoma, Rarieda Sub-County, on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

Orengo cautioned ODM members against following President William Ruto blindly without questioning the errors in his administration urging them to be on the right side of history.

“The law can never be suspended, you must always live by the dictates of the Constitution. When (Adolf) Hitler formed the government, it was a coalition and that coalition died so I pray that ODM to withstand any storm,” he said.

“Even if you make compromises, you must do so on principle. Don’t be part of praise and worship, we must stand firm.”

The governor raised concerns about the surge in abduction cases these past months; calling on the government to put an end to the menace.

“Kenya is crying that we must stop abductions, and extrajudicial killings so that we can be a republic. When there is too much sycophancy in government, people lose sight of their fundamentals.”

Orengo emphasized the need for ODM leaders to prioritize principles over convenience, warning of future repercussions if they compromised the party’s values.

He referenced the late Roseline Odede’s courage in standing against human rights abuses, including abductions and extrajudicial killings.

“We (ODM) have an identity. If you lose that identity for easy victories, we are going to pay for it in the future. If you must make compromises, you must make compromises on matters of principle. Do not be part of praise and worship,” he stated.

Adding;

“I want my conscience to be clear. When there were abductions, I said no to that. I am saying this because Roseline, this December, not three years ago, told the government to stop abductions and stop extrajudicial killings. And when she did that, they took away the money for the commission, and workers could not be paid. That is why I am saying, when there is too much sycophancy, people lose sight of their fundamentals.”

Sifuna reprimands ODM leaders

ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna also used the platform to express his dissatisfaction with a section of ODM leaders who he said were more focused on aligning with President William Ruto’s government than addressing the plight of ordinary Kenyans. Sifuna lamented that such actions have hindered efforts to hold the government accountable.

“We must stop being sycophants. If something is wrong, it is wrong. I will not participate in the activities of my fellow ODM members who are enjoying the fruits of being in Ruto’s government and are stifling my efforts to call out the government,” he said.

Sifuna reiterated the need to uphold the party’s foundational principles, as envisioned by ODM leader Raila Odinga.

He disclosed that Odinga had tasked him with preserving ODM’s identity as a symbol of hope for Kenyans, regardless of the outcome of Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.

“When you decided to run for the AUC, you told me as the Secretary General of ODM that we must retain the identity of our political party as a beacon of hope for Kenyans. This is what I aspire to do, whether you succeed or not,” Sifuna asserted.

January 19, 2025
ODM Lawmaker Tables Bill To Oust Atwoli From COTU

Migori Senator Eddy Oketch has proposed a legislation that could threaten the existence of Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli from the position that he had held for more than two decades.

The Labour Relations (Amendment) Bill, 2024 seek to set term limits for union officials and to end the current arrangement where officials can hold office for as many terms as possible provided they are duly elected and re-elected.

“The principal object of the bill is to provide for the term of office of officials of a trade union, employers’ organisation or federation and requirements for registering a trade union,” the bill states.

“An official of a trade union, employers’ organisation or federation shall hold office for a term beginning on the date on which the official was elected and ending when a person is next elected as an official.”

Migori Senator Eddy Oketch. Photo/Facebook.

Expectedly, Mr. Atwoli has lashed out at the proposal claiming it goes against the principles of free and independent trade unions as advocated for by the International Labour Organisation.

Mr Atwoli said trade unions are essential, free and independent organisations representing the interests of workers, with operations guided by their constitutions.

“It is evident that first-term Senator Eddy Oketch needs to spend more time familiarising himself with the workings of the Senate, particularly with regard to the autonomy and independence of trade unions, rather than talking about issues that are hitherto of no interest to the many Kenyans servicing and sustaining his stay at the Senate.” Atwoli said.

“Cotu wishes to express strong opposition to the Labour Relations (Amendment) Bill 2024,” Mr Atwoli declined yesterday.

Atwoli has called on Senator Oketch to unconditionally withdraw the Bill and instead engage the National Labour Board.

The proposed bill has been published for introduction in the Senate for first reading.

It is set to undergo public participation where officials will share their views on the proposed law.

The Bill, that appears to target long-term officials of trade unions and federations, officials of the groups shall hold office for not more than two terms.

The radical move could see long-serving Cotu SG Atwoli and Federation of Kenya Employers executive director Jacqueline Mugo exit office.

In a rejoinder, however, Atwoli challenged Senator Oketch to familiarise himself with the workings of the Senate, particularly concerning the autonomy and independence of trade unions rather than talking about issues that are hitherto of no interest to the many Kenyans servicing and sustaining his stay at the Senate.

Atwoli has served as Cotu secretary general since 2001 when he was first elected.

His current term ends in April 2026 after he won re-election on April 9, 2021.

Reactions

A section of country’s leadership has reacted to Atwoli’s assertions and fight to keep his hold on power mostly terming it selfish.

“Francis Atwoli has served time and must now leave the Labour Relations arena. Courts are abolishing life sentences for capital offenses, opining that 30 years is more than a life sentence. Why should one individual serve in a public office for more than 30 years.” Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Nelson Havi said.

Former Kiambu governor William Kabogo alludes that Atwoli is not indispensable and that he should give way for new leadership, “ this should not be in debate, all public servants should have term limits. No one is indisposable. Fresh is always good.” He said.

“Francis Atwoli has walked on the backs of Kenyan workers for decades for selfish gain. Most of those he represents are underpaid. COTU is as useless as a used tissue paper. Atwoli only negotiates for his stomach. That’s why he survives by kissing every successive regime’s ass.” Musa Salah posted on X.

However, speaking on Wednesday on Citizen TV, Atwoli said it is not up to him to decide when to retire.

“Are you serving the people who gave you that mandate? That is the question. It is not me to retire, it is them to say. I wanted to retire in 2011 and they said no, I wanted to retire in 2016 they said no. In 2021 I said now you will decide. I’m still around,” he said.

By the time of the next election, Atwoli will have served for 25 years.

Last year, he hinted at leaving Cotu at the end of the current term.

“Matters Cotu-K leadership are Cotu-K constitutional issue and not an Atwoli issue. As of now, I am in office serving my last term,” Atwoli said.

The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers secretary general Akello Misori and chairman Omboko Milemba have also served the union for a long time.

Other long-serving trade union officials are Kenya County Government Workers Union secretary general Roba Duba and Kenya Union of Nurses secretary general Seth Panyako.

According to the Bill, existing officials of a trade union, employers organisation or federation shall be deemed to be duly elected under the Act for the remainder of their term.

April 12, 2024
Luhya Leaders In ODM Blocked Wanyonyi’s bid

Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi during a CDF functions on Sunday explained that he bolted out of the Nairobi gubernatorial race because ODM leader Raila Odinga had received Jubilee backing for presidency and therefore they had to relinquish the Nairobi seat.

Wanyonyi had been touted as the best candidate to occupy Nairobi seat but his ambition was shot down after negotiations with the Jubilee party which will field Polycarp Igathe.

“Because of the arrangement of parties to work together, it comes along with its challenges. And it is due to those challenges that it was agreed that because ODM had been given the presidency, we had to relinquish the Nairobi Governor’s seat for Jubilee,” Wanyonyi said.

But what’s not known to many is that Wanyonyi’s bid had been shot down by ODM leaders from his own Luhya backyard. A section of Luhya leaders identifying themselves as ‘Mulembe Grass root Leaders’ drawn from the ODM party had in January stated that Nairobi was their only bargaining for power.

That was never the case when it came to negotiations. The group led by Vincent Shimoli and drawn from Nairobi’s 85 wards had endorsed Hon. Tim Wanyonyi as their candidate but never backed him during the Azimio negotiations.

In fact, those who loudly shot down Wanyonyi’s bid are Luhya leaders who have been in bed with Jubilee even way before the handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga.

So Wanyonyi did not step down but was pushed down by his own people led by former Nairobi County Assembly Speaker Beatrice Elachi who is conveniently in ODM under the instructions of her spin masters who are Jubilee big wigs.

Prior to her nomination as the Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) in the Ministry of Public Service and Gender, Elachi spent all her precious time abusing ODM leadership and Simba Arati.

Dogoret North parliamentary aspirant Beatrice Elachi. She opposed Wanyonyi’s gubernatorial bid [p/courtesy]
But in the run up to ODM party primaries, she became a sweetheart begging Tim Wanyonyi and SG Edwin Sifuna to help her secure the party ticket to run for Dogoreti North Constituency seat.

She is a Judas who has no right and moral authority to talk about Luhyas and on behalf of Hon Tim Wanyonyi. The former Jubilee nominated senator has never supported any course that favors the Mulembe nation.

Elachi is part of a pack of vindictive and dreadful wolves which include top Luhya leaders in ODM who are not happy with Wanyonyi’s fast and stable rise in politics.

The cabal of Luhya leaders who feel that Wanyonyi is becoming a threat in ODM succession matrix coerced Odinga to throw him, under the bus.

Because Wanyonyi as the governor of Nairobi would definitely lead to emergence of a new crop of Luhya leaders who would take from the likes of Wycliffe Oparanya who is retiring as Kakamega governor.

In a nut shell, Luhya leaders in ODM chose to stifle democracy by sacrificing Hon. Tim Wanyonyi, a person living with disability, loyal member and supporter ODM to support of a political novice.

May 2, 2022
Why Tim Wanyonyi is Nairobi’s safest hand

Westland MP Hon. Tim Wanyonyi Wetang’ula unveiled his ambitions to become the next governor of Nairobi on November 14 2021 with his bid receiving a boost after he was endorsed by ODM supremo Raila Odinga in January 2022.

Wanyonyi launched his bid for the Nairobi top seat under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket and has maintained spirited campaigns to inherit the seat from Anne Kananu in August.

“Fellow residents of Nairobi, I speak not from mere theory but from a firm knowledge and understanding of the affairs of Nairobi. Having served in Nairobi County for a total of fifteen years, I am well aware of what residents of Nairobi require and I will fix it!” Wanyonyi said.

He’s banking on his untainted image and proper use of CDF funds as legacies to propel him to the helm at City Hall. Wanyonyi is promising to transform Nairobi to realize its full potential as the region’s business hub with increased use of ICT in service delivery.

Wanyonyi who has been active in Nairobi for over 15 years serving as a Councillor and MP, has vowed to transform the Kenya’s capital into a smart city if he wins the August 9 polls.

He will face Nairobi Senator Johnson Sakaja who will fly UDA’s flag, Tycoon Richard Ngatia who is expected to run on a Jubilee Party ticket, Agnes Kagure and other questionable characters who have announced their quest for the seat.

Hon. Wanyonyi has called for peaceful and issue-based politics ahead of the August 9 polls as he castigated politicians engaging in confrontational politics and urged them to seek solutions to challenges facing Nairobi residents.

“Instead of engaging in dirty politics and attacking our competitors, we should be telling our constituents what we can do for them,” said Wanyonyi.

He has recieved the backing of more than 30 Nairobi MCAs including Imara Daima’s Kennedy Obuya who called on ODM party leadership to throw its weight behind the Westland’s lawmaker. Karen MCA David Mberia also added that they will rally their support behind Wanyonyi’s candidature not because of coercion but because of his track record which speaks volumes.

Controversial businessman Richard Ngatia [p/courtesy]
So far the debate there is heated as to whether Azimio La Umoja coalition should settle on one candidate between Wanyonyi and Ngatia.l with latest entrant Polycarp Igathe complicating the matrix.

Wanyonyi believes he is the man because Ngatia is a controversial figure whose name has been in the mad for years. He is the man behind a controversial firm that got over Sh1 billion contracts for Covid-19 medical supplies at the centre of the Sh63 billion medical kits scandal.

Kenyan senate said the said the deal was conceived like a criminal enterprise with a damming report by the Senate showing that Ngatia’s Megascope Healthcare Ltd was part of the rip-off and should be investigated by the Ethics and Anti- Corruption Commission (EACC).

Ngatia who doubles as the president of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry also has the authenticity of his degree certificate under scrutiny.

Serious questions began surrounding the education credential’s of President Uhuru Kenyatta’s affluent after UK officials disowned his purported university degree which is obligatory for all candidates seeking the governor position.

Agnes Kagure, Nairobi gubernatorial aspirant [p/courtesy]
The British Commissioner of Education the Director-General answerable for Higher and Further Education Paul Kett stated that there is no single university in the United Kingdom that has ever admitted Richard Ngatia.

“To the best of our knowledge, we would wish to state as follows; there is no University within the territory of the United Kingdom that has ever admitted Mr. Richard Ngatia, or any other student from Kenya by that name, as student in the UK.” Kett stated.

Wanyonyi who is a lawyer by profession will also face off with Agnes Kagure, a dreaded fraudster who has many land cases including Sh500 million land grab scandal in Karen.

But with rumors doing rounds that there are ongoing consultations to coerce Wanyonyi to back another candidate, the Westlands MP has affirmed his resolve to the ballot.

He has refuted claims that he will drop his bid of becoming the city’s administrator to become the running mate to Ngatia of the Jubilee party under the Azimio la Umoja ticket.

Wanyonyi who also enjoys the backing of Ida Odinga the spouse to Raila, remains ODM’s front candidate and enthusiasts are vowing to stand up with him. On matters integrity, he stands out from the rest of his competitors many of whom are battling corruption cases in different fields.

When Nairobians voted in Evans Kidero as the first governor, many weren’t aware of his dark past as a corporate fraud who sunk Mumias Sugar, later, the reality became, Kidero ended up being one of the most corrupt governors in the first dispensation of devolution. Since leaving office, the former governor who’s conspicuously scheming to occupy Homa Bay gubernatorial seat, has been spending most of his days in abs out of court battling corruption cases that he engineered in his tenure.

Nairobi is at a point of making a choice and going through the options of better leadership, there’s an obvious safe hand.

April 18, 2022
It’s Kidero against Raila in Homa-Bay race

Former Nairobi Governor Dr. Evans Kidero has ditched Raila Odinga’s ODM in his quest to become the next governor of Homa Bay County.

Kidero made the bold move after the former Prime Minister locked him out of the party by handing his competitor a direct ODM ticket to contest for the gubernatorial seat.

The inaugural governor of the Kenya’s capital announced that he will now vie for the Homa Bay top seat as an independent candidate citing dictatorship and favoritism in Odinga’s ODM party.

The deep pocketed Kidero who is also facing corruption charges stated that his move was informed by Odinga’s habit of handing direct tickets to his preferred candidates and denying the people opportunity to make their choices.

This comes after Odinga chose to gift Homa Bay Woman Representative Gladys Wanga with a direct ticket and tied former Kasipul Kabondo MP, Oyugi Magwanga, as her running mate.

“I do not recognize the alleged consensus that saw the rights of our people trampled on by a few self-seekers who intend to retain the status quo. I have been inundated with calls, with people asking me to soldier on with my candidature” Kidero said.

ODM leader Raila Odinga and H/Bay gubernatorial aspirant Gladys Wanga [p/courtesy]
ODM party has been under criticism for its new culture of handing over direct tickets to candidates favored by the party leadership or those with deep pockets in areas where it is popular.

Magwanga who is being forced to shelve his ambitions to become Wanga’s running mate was rigged out by ODM in 2017 polls after the party stuck with dismally performing Governor Cyprian Awiti whose term will expire in August.

There is also public outcry in Mombasa county where ODM appears hellbent to hand a direct ticket to a candidate who will be favored by Odinga or the ODM party because they lack the capacity to conduct credible nominations.

But in the Homa Bay case Kidero has noted that interests of the people were ignored by ODM when they handed the party ticket to the Homa-Bay Woman Rep.

Pundits argue that Mrs Wanga can make a governor who can be easily manipulated by Odinga for kickbacks from looted funds.

“As I welcome those who previously believed on the contrary opinion propagated by my former opponents into the Homabay race, I wish to let them know that all of us are members of Homabay County,” Kidero added.

This move then leaves the Homa Bay race to be a Kidero vs Odinga affair as the people of the lake side county remain struggling to have their own choice in leadership to realize the benefits of devolution.

The current administration which was also influenced by Odinga in 2013 and 2017 has nothing to show of its decade long stay in power except rampant corruption and looting of public money.

Though Kidero has not taken Raila head on as he supports his presidential bid, the latest developments will see him face off with Raila’s project to rescue the people of HomaBay from looming status quo.

Homa Bay race has been staged managed by Odinga who has forced aspirants who were eyeing the ODM ticket to shelve their ambitions and back Wanga.

Just a week ago, ODM Chairman John Mbadi was coerced to drop out of the race and pave wave for Odinga’s favorite Gladys Wanga.

Mbadi heeded the call but in a statement issued on Monday, he claimed that his decision was a compromise as he chose to serve national interests and those of Raila Odinga.

“I have today withdrawn my bid from the Homabay County gubernatorial race. I will therefore henceforth place more effort in the Azimio presidential bid and the nationwide bid to have ODM secure as many seats as possible,” Mbadi said.

April 4, 2022
Abide By My Conditions Or I Bolt Out, Shahbal Gives ODM Notice

Being an ODM’s stronghold, the region’s political bigwigs are engaged in high voltage fights that according to analysts, threatens to break the strings holding the Raila Odinga’s led party.

Mombasa governor ticket has come into focus more so much than any other. Mvita MP Abdulswamad Nassir who’s been leading in recent opinion polls is not having his smooth way as his arch rival and businessman Suleiman Shahbal engages his arsenal in ensuring the legislator doesn’t overrun him.

Shabhal is trying to make a third stab on the county’s top seat. Branded by critics as a party hopper, Shahbal made his first attempt and was defeated in 2013 by the incumbent Governor Hassan Joho when he contested through Kalonzo Musyoka’s Wiper Party.

In 2017, Shahbal ran on a Jubilee Party ticket, but still lost to Joho for a second time. At the time, Joho resoundingly thrashed Shahbal with 221,363 votes against his 69,429.

Last year, Shahbal returned to ODM from Jubilee and is now battling with Mvita MP Abdulswamad Nassir for the ODM ticket in the governor’s race.

On Thursday, the ODM National Elections Board brought together the contestants from Mombasa to a meeting held at Emory Hotel in a bid to arrive at a consensus on the best candidate to front for the party but all didn’t end well.

During the meeting, other contestants didn’t agree with opinion polls results that the party was relying on for the best bet with the disgruntled revolting that they don’t trust the process. According to documents availed to our desk, Abdulswamad was favored in all polls as the leading candidate while his opponents who were trailing at a distant, thrashed the results as being fake and untrustworthy.

The Orange party’s National Executive Council in February endorsed four ways of picking aspirants, which also received the backing of the National Delegates Congress.

The NDC approved the use of consensus, direct nomination, identification of candidates through voting by delegates and universal suffrage, through which ODM members would vote for their preferred candidate.

However, the NEC noted they favour consensus while direct nomination would be the last resort.

Raila is on record stating that parties affiliated with the Azimio la Umoja Movement will have to sacrifice their ambitions for the good of the budding coalition.

ODM Chairman, John Mbadi recently shelved his Homa Bay’s gubernatorial ambitions for Gladys Wanga citing calls by his party leader Raila Odinga to help in his national agenda mission.

”I discussed with my party leader and it became apparent that if the national chairman can sacrifice his ambition because of leadership of women, then so be it. I had a huge following in the county. If you look at the anger on the ground, you can clearly see I had captured the imagination of the people.” Mbadi is quoted in a media publication.

“I have supported my party leader since1992 and he told me that he wants to work with me at the national level. I’m happy that I took the risk for the sake of Raila. This will be the first time since 2007 that I will not seek an elective seat.”

The Azimio la Umoja presidential candidate said coalition partners would try to strike a balance in picking candidates for various seats in certain regions.

According to intelligence briefs in the holds of Kenya Insights, ODM had to postpone the party primaries for Mombasa and Kilifi counties.

The party in a statement on Saturday said the move is meant to enable the conclusion of ongoing consultations and consensus-building.

The party primaries for Kilifi and Mombasa were scheduled to take place next week on April 5 and April 6 respectively.

In Kilifi County, Devolution Chief Administrative Secretary Gideon Mung’aro and Deputy Governor Gideon Saburi are also battling for the ODM ticket.

Reports also indicate that Kenya’s High Commissioner to Tanzania Dan Kazungu who is also the former Malindi MP is also eyeing the Kilifi Governor seat through the ODM party.

In Mombasa, the fierce battle between the front contenders has threatened to split the party. While the party insists the choice of candidate should be informed by internal opinion polls amongst other internally laid structures, Shahbal who’s coming second after Nassir in both polls, has rejected the results terming them untrustworthy. In remedy, the party’s top organs have recommended a third, last and determinant poll to square out the stalemate but insiders tell our writer that the businessman is not going to hear none of it. “He’s made it clear that he’s either his way or no way,” a source close to the negotiations says.

”How can a national party be held hostage by interests of an individual? The party has structures and policies laid out that are not only binding to Mombasa but all the counties, why would the part bend its tail for one person? As Saitoti once said, there comes a time when the interests of a nation supersedes that of an individual.” A top ranking party official told this publication.

”We’re determined to arrive at an equal footing with both parties, we’re one family, squabbles are bound to happen. We’re still considering all options on the table and we’ve not exhausted anything. Nobody should feel unwanted, no one should feel too big or too small. We will square this out.” A senior source told Kenya Insights.

”We’re demanding nothing other than a direct ticket,” a close source cites Shahbal.

By the time of going on air, Abdulswamad’s team said they’re open for talks, Shahbal’s said they’re not taking anything other than universal suffrage and if not, they’ll bolt out, “we don’t trust ODM at this point and we have plenty of options” a Shahbal’s senior official told us.

April 3, 2022
New List Of Raila’s Trusted Lieutenants As He Drops Traditional Allies

Even though not yet officially announced, Raila’s name will be on the ballot paper in the 2022 polls. The recent reshuffle of who the AU’s special envoy intends to keep beside him are also in line with his political truce with President Uhuru Kenyatta.

The former Premier through an ODM internal taskforce led by Catherine Mumma is rebuilding the once biggest political party in Kenya by shaking off chaos filled primaries that has been the main reason as to why ODM was losing seats in past polls.

Raila is also shaping his Western and Nyanza bloc inner circle after falling short of soldiers who were politically swayed and bought out from his buddies by Jubilee party some directly while others influenced through affiliate parties.

When the former Gem MP, the mouthy Jakoyo Midiwo and former Chief of staff in the Grand Coalition government Caroli Omondi ditched RAO, whose impact in Nyanza has been felt and seen, the AU envoy is now refilling the cuts.

Also, Raila’s fallout with the former ODM vocal secretary-general Ababu Namwamba, and former vice-chairman Paul Otuoma dented his Western tight-circle.

In Nyanza, Raila is replacing Midowo and Caroli with current vocal insiders, ODM Chairman John Mbadi, and the Director of elections Junet Mohammed. The two are also leading ODM’s campaign to repossess the Kibra Constituency seat.

Kisumu Governor and a political scientist Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, Raila’s sister and former deputy governor Ruth Odinga, Nyando MP Jared Okello and Seme legislator James Nyikal have also been lined up in Raila’s team.

Dr Nyikal Okello, who has a vast international connection, the chairman of the Luo Parliamentary Group, is also in Raila’s kitchen cabinet as the Secretary of Public Policy and Economic Affairs.

Raila also has former minister and now senators Sam Ongeri and the former Attorney General Amos Wako as part of his team Nyanza.

Confirming this yesterday was ODM Chair and Suba MP John Mbadi who said this reshuffles are a normal political strategy in every formidable team.

“I can tell you that we have recruited new people to our team as part of our preparations. People like Senator Sam Ongeri, Amos Wako are part of our team. We also have people from Jubilee who are now working with us,” Mbadi Said.

“That new working relationship was demonstrated in how county assemblies rejected the Punguza Mizigo Bill. You could see central and Nyanza leading in rejecting the bill. I can assure you that we will have a very formidable alliance.” ODM’s Chair added.

In the Gusii bloc, Kisii Governor James Ongwae leads Raila’s team while in Southern Nyanza, Homa Bay Woman Representative Gladys Wanga is a key backer.

“Junet is not only Baba’s man in southern Nyanza, he is also a national errand boy. He is a trusted emissary. He is also a good negotiator. This is why you always see him by Raila’s side in some very difficult missions, like during the March 9, 2018 handshake at Harambee House.” said an ODM insider.

In western, Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, one of ODM’s two deputy party leaders, leads the team of Raila’s generals.

Raila is also outsmarting the ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi in Western Kenya by swaying Mudavadi’s own Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, Saboti MP Caleb Hamisi, and evicted ANC Secretary General and nominated MP Geoffrey Osotsi. ODM SG Edwin Sifuna and Busia Woman Rep Florence Mutua are also Raila’s key allies.

“Stop reading too much into this. I believe nobody can claim to be closer to the party leader than the other.” Nyando MP Okello replied on claims that he was included in Raila’s 2022 team.

“It is too early to speak about 2022. The strategy we may have now may change before then. As a party, we will continue to strengthen our outfit.” Junet commented on the reports yesterday.

In Siaya, Ugunja MP Opiyo Wandayi, who is also the ODM director of political affairs, and East African Legislative Assembly MP Oburu Oginga are key figures in Raila’s political strategy.

Siaya Senator James Orengo, in a previous TV interview hinted to an Uhuru Raila alliance in the comming elections that is probably, going to happen after a referendum to change the system of governance.

“Raila wants to build a new generation of leaders in western while scheming for better things. He has stopped shooting straight from the hip and has succeed in calming the hitherto hot waters in the region,” says governance expert Joshua Orero.

“It is difficult to say who is his man in Nyanza and western. It is only guesswork. Raila does not want to burn bridges,” Ochieng’ Obiero, a political commentator and strategist said.

October 18, 2019
Ruto Allied Jubilee MPs Want IEBC To Disqualify ODM’s Imran Okoth

After ODM accusing DP Ruto of changing his Karen Home to an IEBC headquarter, a section of Jubilee Party legislators have now called on IEBC to disqualify the Orange Democratic Movement candidate Imran Okoth from the November 7 Kibra parliamentary by-election.

The Ruto alied MPs who had earlier today attended a church service at PCEA Emmanuel Church in Makina on Sunday, criticized the Sartiday’s invasion on Jubilee Party candidate McDonald Mariga as he campaigned in Kibra.

Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wa and his Lang’ata counterpart Nixon Korir accused Dagoretti North MP Simba Arati of inciting youths to stone Mr Mariga’s convoy.

“Let all candidates and political parties embrace peace and give Kibra people a chance to decide who they want,” said Mr Ichung’wa.

The DP Ruto sycophants similarly cussed at Kieleweke team led by nominated MP Maina Kamanda for scattering propaganda.

According to them, which probably is the same thought of their boss William Ruto, Maina Kamanda who is only nominated because of his background was misleading Kenyans that President Uhuru Kenyatta does not support Rito’s candidate Donald Mariga.

“Let them (Kieleweke) respect the President and stop lying that they have been sent (to Kibra) by him. It is shameful the youths who attacked Mr Mariga’s convoy yesterday (Saturday) have followed us here and destroyed window panes,” said Mr Korir.

Nixon Korir, the Lang’ata legislator stated that he’s going to write to the IEBC to disqualify the ODM candidate over the violence.

“(Mr) Raila Odinga is in the government courtesy of handshake hence we are free to ask for votes anywhere. The handshake did not come to finish democracy,” he said.

Mariga on his side called out on political leaders to stop manipulating youths to mete out turmoil on their competitors.

“The youths should not be used to unleash chaos on opponents, violence never pays, I have forgiven those who assaulted us,” said Mr Mariga.

October 13, 2019
Plate Numbers Of Raila’s Range And Other High End Vehicles On KRA, DCI Radar

AU’s High Representative for Infrastructure and development and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s luxurious Range Rover is among 18, 444 vehicles confiscated by sleuths over fraudulent registration claims.

Raila’s Range plate number KCS 002D has been seized as DCI And KRA Intensifies Hunt On 444 High-End Cars Illegally Registered Or Stolen.

According to a search for registration details done by DCI boss George Kinoti-led team at the NTSA offices, the plates of the vehicles did not reveal any results despite known ownership.

Igembe North MP Maoka Maore is listed as the owner of KBL 088N (Range Rover). Embakasi West controversial legislature George Theuri’s is the owner of Mercedes Benz KCR 565W, and Kuria West MP Mathias Robi owns Toyota KCG 800J.

Peter Ngirici, the husband to Kirinyaga Woman Rep Purity Ngirici owns a Range Rover plate number KCC 241P, which, to NTSA records, is registered as a government vehicle under plate number GKA702.

Steve Mbogo, who lost Starehe parliamentary seat to Jaguar, the crying politician, owns a Range Rover bearing plate number KCL 830A which according to NTSA records they are registered as a Toyota Probox.

James Gesami, former West Mugirango also a Gubernatorial aspirant who lost in Nyamira has Toyota Premio KBE 365T under his name.

Former Kasipul MP Oyugi Magwanga, who also unsuccessfully contested the Homa Bay governorship owns Toyota Landcruiser KBZ 333Q.

Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (Kirdi) board member Hussein Abshiro Hussein, who also lost the Mandera North seat owns two cars; Range Rover KBT 505D and a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado KCB 788J.

Government-owned SONY Sugar Company owns Land Rover KAA 315P that its whereabouts remain unknown.

Out of the 444 cars that authorities are targeting, 64 are Range Rovers, Mercedes Benz (94) and Toyotas (224). Other flagged makes include 22 Nissan, one Porsche, 26 Subarus, four Volkswagens, and two Volvos whose registration details are suspicious.

On July 31st this year, the DCI, through the officer in charge of Kenya Revenue Authority, issued a signal to all police stations in the country to impound the cars.

“A list of the attached vehicles are circulated in order to have them traced and detailed. The motor vehicles are suspected of having been fraudulently registered and they’re therefore unaccustomed since taxes in their regard have not been paid,” Peter Kiboro, the DCI KRA unit said.

KRA has intensified the crackdown on tax evaders who include businessmen, governors, and firms that were initially considered untouchable.

Last month, KRA Commissioner General James Mburu vowed to intensify a crackdown on tax cheats saying no one is being targeted as an individual.

“Kenyans should reject the narrative that KRA is fighting any individual or business. On the contrary, KRA has the additional responsibility of trade facilitation under which we support a business environment that is conducive for the growth of business, which further results in increased taxes. All we desire is that all eligible taxpayers make every effort to pay their rightful share of taxes. We must all contribute in an equitable manner to the development of our country.” KRA Boss Mburu said.

October 9, 2019
Unbelievable: Raila Refunds Nomination Fees To All ODM Kibra Seat Aspirants

Reports reaching Kenya Insights state that the ODM Party leader and AU’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa Raila Odinga has refunded a total of sh 2.25 million nomination fees to nine aspirants that had paid to the party.

The Orange house was not at peace with frequent visits from the aspirants who, according to our sources, were forced to admit and accept the win of the late Ken Okoth’s brother Imran Okoth even after rogue party officials bungled primaries in Kibra.

Raila handed each of the aspirants Ksh 250,000 they had paid for the party primaries following revelations of how some top party officials orchestrated doctoring of the voters’ roll. The money was handed over on Monday following a closed-door meeting with party leader Raila Odinga.

The aspirants had a chance to deliberate with the party leaders over mishaps that took place during the party primaries and the party acknowledged that there were avoidable mistakes that occurred. It is during the meeting that Raila Odinga resolved to refund the Sh2.25 million the nine had paid to the party for the primaries.

The nine aspirants were named as Peter Orero, Ben Musungu, John Otieno, Chris Odhiambo (DJ Kriss Darlin), Tony Ogola, Stephen Okello, Brian Owino, Reuben Ojijo, and Eric Obayi.

Kisumu Woman Representative Rosa Buyu confirmed the reports of the nomination fee refunds today on a morning media talk show where she passionately defended the ODM party primaries in Kibra.

“ODM has been at the forefront, advocating for credible and fair party nominations. The ODM party has apologized to other aspirants in Kibra and has accepted to refund the KSh250,000 that they had each paid as nomination fee,” she stated.

Rasa Boyu also refuted claims that Raila Odinga was mad at what happened in Kibra and emphasized that the former premier was keen to encourage the aspirants to remain loyal to his party.

“Mr Odinga acknowledges that there were challenges in the nominations, with names missing from the voter register but those were not tailored or deliberately introduced to favour or disenfranchise any aspirant,” a statement sent to newsrooms on Monday read in part.

September 17, 2019
Imran Okoth Secures ODM Kibra Nomination Ticket

Bernard Otieno Okoth alias Imran a brother to the late Kibra MP Ken Okoth wins the Kibra O.D.M party nominations.

Imran is set to battle it out with Jubilee’s MacDonald Mariga, Ford Kenya’s Eng. Khamisi Butichi, ANC’s Eliud Owalo and Dorn Anaclet of the Democratic Party for the Kibra National Assembly seat.

More to follow

September 8, 2019
How Raila’s ODM Party Has Used, Dumbed, Isolated and Neglected Norman Magaya

By Social media user Seth Odongo

Many of you may have read that Norman Magaya, the former head of NASA Coalition Secretariat, collapsed at Bomas of Kenya in August 2017 during the verification of presidential votes. Here is an article that reported the incident.

Many of you may not know, however, that Mr. Magaya has been battling a heart condition arising from that incident, sometimes spending months in the hospital, his condition improving only to deteriorate again.

Magaya served NASA at a time the opposition front needed someone with his courage, tenacity, and loyalty.

Long before the handshake, it was actors like Norman Magaya who the system singled out to torment – and torment the system did – to stop the pressure and the agitation.

The Bomas incident is well known to the people who should know, and it is generally understood that it was not natural. Magaya must have been poisoned. Or something more terrible happened there.

Right now Magaya is so weak and thin; the body wasted by whatever it is that happened to him at Bomas, the spirit stung by the disloyalty, the isolation and the neglect by the political class he dutifully served.

Raila Odinga at Nairobi Hospital where he visited Norman Magaya Photo|ODM party

Now, long before Magaya there was another case. That of Kenyatta University students whom Olive Muganda suspended/expelled after a 2013 vote stuffing scandal that students unearthed at Kenyatta University’s main campus, leading to chaos.

These students were seeking the then CORD, and specifically ODM, and particularly ODM Leader Raila Odinga, to intervene and have them return to school and complete their studies. They’d been processed quickly through university disciplinary mechanisms and punitively condemned.

I remember this case because when we pushed so hard and @silasjakakimba managed to fix an audience between these students and Mr. Odinga, he called the then ODM Executive Director Magerer Langat to follow up the issue with Prof. Mugenda.

Magerer spent weeks and months pussyfooting on the issue; and never made any contact. Of course politics never stopped and politicians moved on to other things BUT the academic lives of these students stopped.

The one who had been expelled – Oluoch Dan Owino – sued KU and though the judge, Mumbi Ngugi, found that the students had been processed arbitrarily, still left their fate at the mercy of the managers of KU, who never showed any empathy.

The other students served their years – between three to five years – and returned to complete their studies. Some never returned, with no one to pay their fees and HELB cancelling their loans. They are part of the statistics of wasted, like Karl Max Owiro before them.

The expelled student, Oluoch Dan Owino, after trying endlessly to regain admission at KU to no avail, got a Norwegian scholarship through the help of

@LempaaSuyinka and @GitobuImanyara and left for Norway.

I digress to the story of the KU students to demonstrate to you what seems to be happening to Norman Magaya.

From my conversation with several people with direct knowledge of the matter, Mr. Odinga had apparently directed that Orange House takes charge of the matter and ensures Magaya gets the support he needs.

Like Magerer Langat before him, Oduor Ong’wen is dithering on the issue, and is NOT giving the kind of leadership needed to ensure Magaya’s condition gets the attention it requires.

Oduor Ong’wen knows Comrade Norman Magaya is in bad shape. He also knows when he had the energy and the health; none was a more dependable comrade than Magaya.

Some people were saying Mr Kawino (Finance Director) is the problem, or Charles Memba (Accountant); but I reject these insinuations. If the party leader made a pronouncement on Magaya, it is the ED to effect it. If not, that matter goes to the SG, @edwinsifuna

Finally, these things can make you have so many enemies but nothing disgusts me than the betrayal. Let’s not wait to send ‘heartfelt condolences’, wallowing in pretentious shock, yet now, those who should know Magaya is suffering are acutely aware; and are doing NOTHING.

Disclaimer: Opinions expressed are writer’s own and doesn’t represent Kenya Insights’.

September 3, 2019
Revealed: How Musalia Mudavadi’s Kibra Candidate Stole ODM’s Campaign Money In 2013

By Phillip Nyamai

Owalo believes Kibra has not been growing for the past 53yrs. In his mind, Kibra people are still using flying toilets, no sanitation at all, no any good housing, no recreational facilities, and everyone living there earns as low as Sh150 a day. In his myopic reasoning, he would change Kibra from being slum immediately after winning and also stop the rich from getting richer. You’ll agree with me that there are wealthier people living in Kibra compared to this guy who stole CORD’s campaign resources in 2013.

According to Owalo, Kibra is wallowing in abject poverty and diseases with the residents living in despicable conditions of abject poverty due to corruption that goes up to 1trillion. This figure too is wrong. He needs to research well. That aside, if Owalo was saying this statement while vying on a wiper ticket I would say, well and good. Owalo cannot talk about corruption yet he is vying on an ANC ticket and we all know where Musalia Mudavadi’s resources came from or you think Golden Berg was pocket change?

He is talking about corruption and CORD’s 2013 agents are yet to be paid to date, where did he take their monies? Owalo has been a sellout since his days in campus, ask his schoolmates.

To Owalo what the people of Kibra need is a welfare bus to transport dead bodies home, and other buses to take fans of Gor Kogalo to wherever Gor will be playing that day. Is he vying to be Gor Mahia chairman? Kibra constituency gets Sh120+ million every financial year as NG-CDF but what Owalo is prioritizing on is four buses at the expense of what the NG-CDF amendment Act 2016 requires. To him the people of Kibra only needs to die and their bodies ferried home or be Gor Mahia fans and taken to the stadium to go watch football.

This mentality of thinking what the people need before engaging them is what will ruin the Owalos of this world. Voters no longer need defenders, they need what will put food on their tables, have their young ones study or acquire relevant skills and generally improve everyone’s life by empowering them. There is a working system in Kibra that has elaborate plan on Sanitation, housing, lighting, security, education, empowering people, infrastructure, and plans for other social amenities, all one needs to do is to identify with that system and advanced it.

Disclaimer: Opinions expressed are writer’s own and doesn’t represent Kenya Insights’.

August 31, 2019
Outsiders Or Insiders: ANC Party Dangling Loyalties Of Malala And Osotsi

Musalia Mudavadi’s ANC Party and Senator Moses Wetangula’s Ford Kenya Party have been planning for political merger in since early last year.

A move the two opposition parties termed as Luhya Unity and a political strategy to unify the vote-rich Western region in their political basket.

According Mudavadi, this is to enhance peaceful coexistence and have a western votes lock up to give the region a strong bargaining power in National politics and future elections.

But the merger has been delayed what ANC handlers called influence from ‘Outsiders’ through those who belong to the respective parties.

Or this was just a rushed political strategy that was to cover the shame, mess and confusion around Raila Odinga’s swearing in and talks of NASA collapsing.

Not forgetting, the merger, if rushed and miscalculated, will have no strong Political viability in the region or the Nation.

The constantly and continuous influence of ODMs Raila Odinga and Government influence through DP Ruto in Western Kenya has widened the rift amongst local leaders.

Raila who says that he is the 13th grand child of Nabongo-Mumia Of the larger Wanga kingdom has insisted that western leaders should not to leave him out of the negotiations.

Raila enjoyed a massive support from Western region in 2007, 2013 and 2017.

Railas deep influence is a biggest threat to the ANC-Ford Kenya merger and it’s political viability.

Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala and nominated MP Godfrey Osotsi have come out as two ANC members who not only support but also strongly protects ODM’s political agenda in the region.

Also in this mess of misplaced loyalties line is Vihiga Senator George Khaniri who is a staunch supporter of Raila.

Senator Malala and The expelled ANC SG Osotsi told a local press that ANC handlers want them out of the party because of their close association with ODM and Raila’s agenda.

Osotsi is now claiming that his “Organized” expulsion from ANC wasn’t because of the allegations of loss of Party Funds.

The Two says their party and Party leader is fighting them because they are supporting Raila and his party’s principles.

Senator Malala and Osotsi loyalties are dangling. They clearly don’t belong to Mudavadi neither are they admitting to belong to Raila.

They’re are still supporting NASA and it’s leader at the expense of their party.

NASA is a political coalition that legally exists But has been rendered irrelevant its cause overtaken by events.

This is not the first time Malala’s loyalty has been questioned.

Late Last year, Wanga Council of Elders declared the first term senator A Luo by Birth and origin.

The Chairperson of the Council of Elder Peter Nabongo, told the writer of this site that Malala can never be allowed to sign a deal on behalf of the Luhya community.

Peter Nabongo said Malala’s father came from Nyanza and settled In western.

“Malala’s father was allowed to marry from around this region, that doesn’t qualify him as a Luhya” Said Peter Nabongo.

Osotsi on the other side, has been allegedly withdrawing ANC funds for his own personal business and agenda.

The ANC self proclaimed founder has never attended ANC meetings nor stepped his foot in ANC offices for more than a Year now.

Barrack Muluka ANC secretary general and Ford Kenya’s Eseli Simiyu have confirmed the merger plans saying that the learnt that their effort had been infiltrated by outsiders from both sides.

Osotsi and Malala have the same political feathers as Boni Khalwale.

Their loyalty is swayed by money and Other political related incentives.

These self proclaimed Western political youths have clearly shown their split personalities In matters leadership, development, public politics and most important, Democracy in their party politics.

With that out and aside, i pose a question to you our esteemed readers;

Are these two a generational change of politics or they are a practical example and a case study of the misplaced and displaced Political loyalties of the Luhya Nation?

June 4, 2019