The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has responded to claims made by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta regarding the August 2022 presidential election. Kenyatta's assertion that Raila Odinga actually won the election has sparked fresh tension, prompting ODM to demand full disclosure from the former Head of State. ODM leader Dr. Oburu Oginga emphasized that while Kenyatta's confession confirms what ODM leadership and supporters believed, it raises critical questions.

Dr. Oburu Oginga highlighted the tremendous political compromises ODM made during its alliance with Uhuru Kenyatta following the 2018 Handshake. To promote national unity and stability, ODM intentionally lowered its ambitions, refraining from demanding Cabinet seats or administrative positions within Kenyatta's government. Ahead of the 2022 general election, ODM made further sacrifices, conceding key elective positions to support the Azimio la Umoja coalition project.

ODM argues that Kenyatta owes Kenyans a comprehensive explanation for his delayed revelation. Dr. Oburu outlined two main questions that Kenyatta must answer: why he waited four years to reveal the information and why his administration facilitated the transfer of power to William Ruto, despite allegedly knowing Odinga won. These questions strike at the heart of statehood, sovereign will, and democratic legitimacy in Kenya.

The statement concluded with a firm warning against turning Raila Odinga's legacy into mere political leverage or campaign propaganda. Dr. Oburu stressed that the sacrifices made by Odinga and citizens who stood by him must be treated with dignity and respect. Kenyatta's statement has struck a raw nerve within ODM and among millions of Kenyans.

Dr. Oburu urged Kenyatta to disclose the complete truth behind the 2022 election transition rather than offering piecemeal comments. As the political landscape reacts, all eyes remain on Kenyatta to see whether he will provide the full account demanded by his former allies. The ODM party chose to exhaust constitutional avenues and let the matter rest to preserve national peace.

Kenyatta's public assertion has reopened old wounds, sparking fresh tension and prompting ODM to demand answers. The party made concessions in good faith, prioritizing the nation's collective future over individual gain. ODM insists that Kenyatta's questions are not merely academic or historical curiosities.

The ODM party leader emphasized that Kenyatta's confession confirms what ODM leadership and millions of supporters believed at the time. However, it fundamentally alters the narrative, and ODM demands a comprehensive explanation for the delayed revelation.

Key points

  • ODM demands answers from Uhuru Kenyatta on his delayed revelation that Raila Odinga won the 2022 presidential election.
  • The party questions why Kenyatta's administration facilitated the transfer of power to William Ruto despite allegedly knowing Odinga won.
  • ODM warns against turning Raila Odinga's legacy into mere political leverage or campaign propaganda.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.