Member of Parliament Daniel Manduku has raised concerns over the treatment of the Gusii community within the ODM party, criticizing former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for allegedly sidelining the region. His remarks come in the wake of the recent ODM party elections, where key leadership positions were predominantly allocated to leaders from the Luo community. Notably, the Deputy Chairperson role was assigned to Kisii Governor Simba Arati.
Manduku expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as the lack of meaningful representation for the Gusii community in the party’s leadership, despite their longstanding support for Raila and ODM. He pointed out that while the chairperson position went to Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and the Secretary General post to Edwin Sifuna, the interim leadership was entrusted to Kisumu Governor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o. He questioned why the Gusii community had not been given more prominent roles.
At the same time, Raila Odinga has reportedly shifted focus to his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, scheduled for next month. This decision has left the party’s leadership in the hands of Nyong’o as the interim leader. However, divisions have emerged within the ODM party, with some leaders choosing to align themselves with President William Ruto’s administration, while others remain staunchly opposed.
Manduku’s criticism highlights the growing discontent among Gusii leaders, who feel the community’s loyalty to ODM has not translated into tangible benefits. The apparent divisions within the party further underscore the challenges facing its leadership as it navigates internal and external pressures.
By Nairobi