Junet Mohamed’s Gag Order Sparks Debate in ODM Over Potential Alliance with Ruto

A recent directive from National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed has stirred concern within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

Junet’s gag order prevents party members from engaging with other parties, specifically barring them from direct interaction with President William Ruto. ODM members have been instructed to go through Junet or parliamentary leadership for any political engagements outside the party.

This move is aimed at maintaining unity within ODM, yet some members see it as restrictive.

The directive comes amid ODM's ambiguous stance on its relationship with Ruto. Though officially the party denies any formal alliance, they have taken some collaborative steps, such as joining efforts in Parliament to support certain actions against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

There is also talk of a formal coalition, especially since Ruto recently appointed five ODM members to his Cabinet.

Some ODM members, like Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, emphasize the need to address the pressing issues affecting Kenyans, such as the high cost of living, rather than pursuing alliances. Others, like MP Caleb Amisi, believe joining a coalition with Ruto’s UDA party would alienate ODM’s core supporters.

In contrast, Siaya Governor James Orengo advocates for a formalized agreement to ensure ODM gains a clear stake in government policies and initiatives.

These tensions echo ODM’s historic alliance with Ruto in 2007 when Ruto supported Raila Odinga’s presidential bid. Today, a renewed alliance between Ruto and Raila offers stability to the President, who is drawing increased support from Raila’s strongholds.

This evolving relationship leaves ODM members split, with some favoring a structured alliance and others firmly against it, wary of losing the party's identity and mission.