Strong Warnings Against Party Members

Busia County Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo warned sternly against any Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) members whose actions could bring to bear the weakening or fracturing of the party from within. Omanyo, who is also ODM Deputy Secretary-General, warned that some of the members have allowed themselves to be pawns in the hands of unnamed forces to stir up disharmony or undermine the integrity of the party; such would attract seriously negative consequences. She made it clear that nothing will stop the party from taking such measures, which would ultimately safeguard its unity, integrity, and core values.

In Omanyo's view, the party is committed to enforcing discipline among its members, whereby sanctions would be rendered against any member whose actions affect the stability of the party, including possibly being expelled from it. This loyalty to the party's constitution and respect for its internal structure, she said, is, therefore, non-negotiable for all members.

Unity, Discipline and Internal Democracy

Although Omanyo accepts differences of opinion within a democratic political movement, she stresses that the partisan variety must lie within the party constitution. While there is freedom of debate and dissent in ODM, it should not be abused for undermining the party, she warned. Keeping unity would depend much on respect for the recognized organs of leadership, she emphasized.

She assured ODM supporters that, despite ongoing internal disagreements, the party remains intact and strong. The leadership is in constant engagement with diverse stakeholders to resolve any emerging challenges and avert divisions before they escalate. As per her, ODM's power rests in addressing its conflicts internally while pursuing its political agenda far and wide.

Busia County Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo. Photo/Courtesy

ODM-UDA Engagements

With regard to the political position of the party, Omanyo confirmed that ODM is still working with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) under the arrangement of a broad-based government. It was repeated that any political relationship or realignment in the future will be established according to a robust negotiation framework and agreed terms rather than in an ad hoc manner or through unilateral actions.

In its entirety, the leadership would remain committed to ensuring that ODM itself remains united by the end of any dealings, internal or external according to the party constitution and long-term interests.