The recent wave of expulsions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has sparked reactions from affected members, including Langata Member of Parliament Felix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o. The comedian-turned-politician has voiced his perspective on the ongoing developments within the party.
Jalang’o, who was among the MPs penalized by ODM for allegedly going against the party’s stance on the Finance Act 2023 and going to meet President Ruto in State House, questioned the legitimacy of his expulsion. He remarked, “Who has kicked me out of the party?” In his view, ODM primarily belongs to Raila Odinga, the party’s leader. He emphasized that unless he receives formal communication from Raila himself, he considers himself a member of ODM.
“Who has kicked me out of the party? ODM belongs to Raila Odinga and if I have not received Communication from him then it means I am still in ODM,” the Langata MP noted.
This reaction from Jalang’o aligns with the ongoing discourse regarding the expulsion of MPs and members from ODM. The party has taken disciplinary actions against those who defied its position on the Finance Act and have sided with President William Ruto, with penalties ranging from fines to expulsion.
The situation surrounding the expelled ODM MPs remains fluid, with various perspectives and interpretations of party discipline and the constitutional provisions governing such matters. As highlighted earlier, Article 103 of the Kenyan Constitution dictates that an MP expelled from their party should resign from their seat, which triggers a by-election in their constituency.
Jalang’o’s comments reflect the uncertainty and debates surrounding these expulsions and their implications. As the affected MPs grapple with the consequences of their actions, they seek clarity on their party status and political future. The ODM party, under the leadership of Raila Odinga, may need to address these concerns to provide a clear path forward for its members.
The evolving situation will likely continue to capture public attention as the affected MPs navigate their next steps in Kenyan politics.
by: NewsArena