The news of the fine imposed on Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris by the ODM NEC was met with mixed reactions from her constituents. While some lauded the decision, others felt that the punishment was too harsh.
Passaris, who was among 28 ODM members who defied the party and voted for the Finance Act 2023, said that she stood by her decision to support the Bill.
“I am a representative of the people and my primary duty is to serve them. I felt that the Bill would benefit my constituents and I therefore voted in favor of it,” she said.
However, the NEC maintained that the party’s position on the Bill was clear and that Passaris and others who voted against it had gone against the party’s directive.
“We have a strict code of discipline and we expect all our members to adhere to it. This decision sends a strong message that we will not tolerate indiscipline,” said NEC Chair Raila Odinga.
Passaris now has to pay the fine of Ksh250,000 and issue a written apology to the party within seven days. She has also been warned against associating with President William Ruto.
The expulsion of MPs Elisha Odhiambo, Caroli Omondi, Gideon Ochanda, Felix Odiwuor and Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda for associating with Ruto was also seen as a warning to others within the party.
Mark Ogolla Nyamita and Paul Abuor were also fined Ksh1 million each and ordered to offer a written apology to the party within seven days.
The NEC said that the resolutions adopted were aimed at ensuring discipline within the party and promoting unity and cohesion.
“ODM is a strong and disciplined party and we will not allow anyone to undermine that. We will continue to work towards our goals of transforming the country and improving the lives of our people,” said Odinga.
by: Mascherano