The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has issued a stern warning to the government, demanding an immediate end to what it terms the unlawful use of force and abductions of Kenyan youth. The party accused the state of undermining the spirit of the March 7 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) it signed with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
In a statement posted on its official X account, ODM expressed outrage over recent incidents involving arbitrary arrests and reported abductions, with particular concern over the death of teacher Albert Ojwang. Ojwang was arrested in Homa Bay on June 7 and later died in police custody at the Nairobi Central Police Station under unclear circumstances. Preliminary postmortem results reportedly indicate neck compression, suggesting possible torture.
“Stop harming Kenyans. Stop targeting the youth. End the abductions… This is not in line with what was agreed on March 7. We must promote cohesion, not division,” ODM stated, calling on the government to uphold the MoU’s commitment to peace, justice, and national unity.
The party emphasized that such actions contradict the agreement made between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, which aimed to foster inclusive governance and address the country’s pressing social, economic, and political issues—particularly the welfare of the youth.
On Thursday, youth demonstrators staged protests in Nairobi, demanding the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, whom they accused of overseeing a wave of police brutality and enforced disappearances.
ODM Deputy Party Leader and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi echoed the public outcry during a Senate session on June 10. He warned that ODM may reconsider its cooperation with UDA if a transparent and independent investigation into Ojwang’s death is not conducted promptly.
“The MoU was built on trust and a shared vision for the country. This trust is now in question,” Senator Osotsi said.
With mounting pressure from the public and within its ranks, ODM’s warning signals a possible political standoff, unless the government acts decisively to restore confidence in the rule of law and human rights protections.
