Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has warned Western Kenya of the Orange Democratic Movement's (ODM) increasing influence in the region. Speaking to religious leaders in Nyang'ori, Vihiga County, Mudavadi cited recent parliamentary reshuffles as evidence of ODM's expanding grip on key government positions. He highlighted the removal of Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro as chair of the National Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee in March 2025.
Mudavadi questioned why ODM, which did not back President William Ruto in the 2022 election, was now vocal in defending his administration and securing strategic posts. He noted that ODM's leaders now appear more committed to defending Ruto's government than some original supporters. This development has raised concerns among local leaders, who risk losing key government positions if they fail to take ODM's moves seriously.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary recalled his 2022 prediction that Ruto would win the presidency and that former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's ODM would eventually join the government. Mudavadi noted that ODM had already entered a broad-based arrangement with Kenya Kwanza after the 2024 upheaval. This arrangement has enabled ODM to secure influential positions in the government.
Mudavadi's warning comes amid shifting political alliances in Western Kenya, where some figures have expressed support for former ODM secretary-general Edwin Sifuna. The region is witnessing a scramble for influence, with ODM positioning itself to capture important government roles. Local leaders are urged to be cautious and take ODM's moves seriously to avoid losing key positions.
The ODM's growing influence in Western Kenya is evident in the recent replacement of Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro with ODM MP Samuel Atandi as chair of the National Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee. This move has sparked concerns about the party's expanding grip on key government positions. Mudavadi's warning is a call to action for local leaders to be vigilant and protect their interests.
Mudavadi's remarks have significant implications for the region, where ODM's influence is growing rapidly. The party's leaders are now more committed to defending Ruto's government than some original supporters, suggesting that they will not easily relinquish the positions they have secured. This development has raised concerns about the future of Western Kenya's representation in the government.
The shifting political landscape in Western Kenya has created new opportunities and challenges for local leaders. Mudavadi's warning is a reminder that the competition for influence should not be treated as a game. Local leaders must take ODM's moves seriously and work to protect their interests in the face of growing competition from the party.
Key points
- ODM's growing influence in Western Kenya has raised concerns about the region's representation in the government.
- Mudavadi has urged local leaders to take ODM's moves seriously to avoid losing key government positions.
- The ODM's growing grip on key government posts is evident in recent parliamentary reshuffles.
