By Edwin Sifuna
In the days following the announcement by our Party Leader, H.E. Rt Hon Raila Odinga, of his desire to contest the African Union Commission Chairmanship, the media in Kenya has been awash with false narratives and skewed pseudo-analysis about what they call succession politics within the ODM party.
It hasn’t escaped notice that these fake news items appear coordinated, well-choreographed, and consistent, which suggests a well-woven plot to incite division within the Party is afoot.
In these reports, media houses are falling over themselves to create the perception of factional fights in our party over non-existent vacancies.
AdvertSince its inception, the ODM party has remained the most consequential political organization in multiparty Kenya. This is no mean feat but has been achieved by a strong leadership foundation, vibrant party structures, credible values, and a strong party membership base.
These virtues form the basis upon which any succession or filling of vacant leadership positions is conducted. If a time ever comes for transitions within the party’s leadership, we will make it public.
May it go on record that H.E. Rt Hon Raila Odinga, in seeking the AU position, has not made any pronouncements regarding his local political future, and remains the Party Leader of ODM.
We urge our members not to fall for the narratives currently being churned by the media. The party remains strong, focused on its mandate, and working for the masses in its role as the people’s watchman.
The biggest issue afflicting Kenyans today is the high cost of living and not party political succession.
We understand politics sells, especially anything revolving around the Rt Hon Odinga, but we urge that the media takes only the truth to the Market. As a publicly funded institution, ODM has always run an open door and kept the media abreast of all events and programs we conduct. Should the media require credible news from us, they just need to ask.
Signed
Senator Edwin Sifuna, MP.
Secretary General.
