Nyaribari Chache Member of Parliament (MP) Zaheer Jhanda has lashed out at the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, accusing it of hypocrisy and double standards in its dealings with the Kenya Kwanza government.
Speaking on Saturday, Jhanda said ODM had no moral authority to lecture the government on governance or human rights, given that it is part of the same administration. He criticized the party’s recent stance on anti-government protests, which have rocked the country in recent weeks.
“ODM should not threaten or lecture us on how to run the government or human rights issues. They have never won any elections,” said Jhanda. “If they’re uncomfortable in the broad-based government, then they should leave quickly.”
The outspoken legislator dared ODM to instruct its members serving in President William Ruto’s Cabinet to resign, claiming only then would the party’s criticism be taken seriously.
Jhanda’s remarks come in the wake of sustained pressure from ODM leaders, led by Raila Odinga, calling for a national dialogue to address Kenya’s ongoing socio-political and economic crisis. Odinga has proposed a national conclave of 40 delegates drawn from all 47 counties, with equal youth representation, to forge a new way forward for the country.
“We do not want to go into the 2027 elections with much rage,” Odinga said, emphasizing the need for inclusive civic reform.
ODM national chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga also condemned increasing incidents of police brutality, referencing the deaths and injuries sustained by protesters during recent demonstrations. She called for justice in the cases of teacher Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody, and others like Philip Oketch and Gabriel Mwita Chacha, who were reportedly brutalized by security officers.
National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed echoed these sentiments, criticising President Ruto’s controversial “shoot-in-the-leg” directive to security agencies. He reiterated ODM’s commitment to working with the government until 2027, after which the party would chart its next political course.
The growing tensions underline a fragile alliance within Kenya’s political leadership, as the country grapples with rising public dissent and calls for accountability.
