ODM party still strong, vibrant and focused on its political agenda - MP Umulkheir

ODM nominated MP Umulkheir Harun speaking to the press in Garissa town./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

ODM-nominated MP Umulkheir Harun has insisted that the party remains united, vibrant and firmly focused on its political agenda.

Speaking during a public engagement in Garissa town, dismissed claims that the party has been weakened by the ongoing internal disagreements among rival factions,

The legislator, who has already declared her interest in contesting for the Garissa Woman Representative seat in the next General Election, said ODM's strength cannot be undermined by what she described as a handful of disgruntled individuals.

She was reacting to the recent happenings in the party that has seen two factions emerge-the Linda Mwananchi headed by secretary general Edwin Sifuna and the Linda ground that is headed by party leader Oburu Oginga.

"I want to tell you openly, ODM cannot be weakened. We are fully behind our party leadership, Senator Oburu.  A party that has existed for more than 20 years cannot simply be wished away because of a few dissenting voices," said Harun.

She maintained that members dissatisfied with the party's direction are free to pursue alternative political paths, but should not expect to destabilise ODM from within.

ODM nominated MP Umulkheir Harun speaking to the press in Garissa town./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

"If you are in ODM, you are welcome. If you choose to be outside ODM, that is your democratic right. But what cannot happen is for a few individuals to create divisions and claim the party is collapsing. ODM remains strong and firmly rooted across the country, including here in Garissa," she added.

Harun emphasised that the party will continue fielding candidates in all elective positions despite ongoing debates around political alliances and zoning arrangements.

"We will field our candidates. We will be on the ballot from the grassroots to the highest elective offices. ODM remains a formidable political force, and we are confident the party will win several seats in this region because our support on the ground remains strong," she said.

The MP further defended ODM's cooperation with President William Ruto's administration under the broad-based arrangement, arguing that the partnership is aimed at accelerating development and improving service delivery.

"For a long time, we have been in opposition, and our people deserve development. We want to be part of building this country. As leaders, we must focus on delivering services and opportunities to our people. That is why we support initiatives that advance development and national unity," she stated.

Harun said ODM members remain committed to supporting the party leadership's decisions regarding its engagement with the Kenya Kwanza administration.

"We are in the broad-based arrangement because we believe it serves the interests of Kenyans. Whatever agreements are reached between ODM and our counterparts will be communicated officially by the party when the time is right. There is no need for speculation," she noted.

The legislator also paid tribute to ODM's founding ideals and the sacrifices made by the party's leadership over the years, saying members have a responsibility to safeguard its legacy.

ODM nominated MP Umulkheir Harun speaking to the press in Garissa town./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

"This party has been built through years of sacrifice and struggle. It has survived difficult moments before, and it will survive this one. I cannot be part of any effort that weakens the movement. I am proud to be ODM, and I believe the party's future remains bright," she said.

Her remarks come at a time when ODM has intensified efforts to consolidate its support base and strengthen its cooperation with President Ruto's administration.

Recently, thousands of ODM supporters converged at Kirembe Grounds in Kisumu, where party leaders led by National Chairperson Gladys Wanga and veteran politician Dr Oburu Oginga reaffirmed the party's commitment to the broad-based arrangement with the government.

The gathering also sought to address internal differences and rally members behind a common political direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.