Governor Ahmed Abdullahi backs ODM–Kenya Kwanza deal, dismisses critics

Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi at a function in Maalimin, Lagdera subcounty, Garissa.

Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi has come out in support of the working relationship between the ODM party and President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration, even as internal tensions continue to surface within the opposition outfit.

Speaking on Saturday in Maalimin, Lagdera Sub-county, Abdullahi, a two-term ODM governor, insisted that the majority of party members support the cooperation.

“To the best of my knowledge, a majority of ODM at every level is supportive of the broad-based government,” he said.

The governor pointed to ODM leader Raila Odinga’s public commitment to support President Ruto until 2027, noting that the party will review the arrangement thereafter.

“That is the position held by our party members,” Abdullahi stated.

His remarks come amid growing criticism from within ODM.

Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna has strongly opposed the relationship, recently declaring the deal “dead” during a TV interview, citing continued police brutality and democratic backsliding.

He referenced the June 8 death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody as evidence that the government had violated key tenets of the ODM–Kenya Kwanza MoU.

Abdullahi, however, dismissed opposition figures who consistently criticiSe the government, urging them to wait for the next election.

“If you hate President Ruto so much, please wait for 2027,” he said.

“Criticise him in a mature way that doesn’t incite Kenyans. Don’t demand that we all hate him just because you do.”

He also challenged assumptions that those opposed to Ruto represent the majority. “You can bring your candidate, but let those who support the President have their voice too,” he added.

As Chair of the Council of Governors, Abdullahi praised the current administration’s handling of county funding, contrasting it with the previous regime.

“In terms of both the amount and the timely release of money, we are better off today than we’ve ever been at the Council of Governors,” he said.

He further urged Kenyans to be wary of glorifying politicians who oppose the government. “Some of these people have nothing to offer, but Kenyans idolize them just because they’re critical,” he said.

On Friday, Raila Odinga defended Sifuna’s right to dissent, reaffirming that ODM remains a democratic party where open dialogue is encouraged.

“I have not imposed any restrictions on speech within the party,” Odinga said, urging tolerance of differing views, including those critical of his own leadership.