Otiende Amollo Warns ODM Infighting Could Undermine 2027 Pre-Election Negotiations

By John Kariuki

Rarieda Member of Parliament, Hon. Otiende Amollo, has raised serious concern over deepening divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement, warning that escalating internal wrangles could significantly weaken the party ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking in his constituency on Sunday, the outspoken legislator reaffirmed his loyalty to ODM but acknowledged that the party is increasingly split into rival factions charting divergent political trajectories. According to him, one faction is firmly aligned with efforts to mount a formidable challenge against President Hon. William Ruto in 2027, while another appears inclined toward supporting his re-election bid.

Serving as ODM’s deputy chairman, Hon. Otiende noted that he finds himself at the centre of the unfolding tensions, cautioning that unchecked infighting risks diminishing the party’s bargaining power in any pre-election arrangement. He urged members to embrace structured dialogue and internal consensus-building rather than public confrontation.

The lawmaker stressed that ODM must pursue formal, well-structured negotiations before committing to any political alliance. He warned against unconditional political alignment, insisting that any agreements must be properly documented, clearly articulated, and legally binding to prevent breaches.

Referencing the political fallout between President Ruto and his former deputy, Hon. Otiende observed that loosely framed political partnerships often unravel due to mistrust and ambiguous commitments. He maintained that ODM must learn from such experiences and ensure clarity and accountability in all its engagements.

Hon. Otiende also dismissed calls for the expulsion of dissenting voices within the party, reminding members that ODM’s founding leader, the late Hon. Raila Odinga, has historically championed inclusivity and internal democracy.

He further pointed out that the party has not yet formally agreed on who should lead pre-election negotiations or which priority issues should define the talks, terming the ongoing internal battles premature and counterproductive.

The MP concluded by urging party members to close ranks, warning that without unity and strategic discipline, ODM risks entering the 2027 political contest weakened and strategically disadvantaged.