Kisumu Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda, a vocal critic of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has predicted doom for the Azimio coalition, saying that it will split into two factions due to Raila’s decision to work with President William Ruto.
In an interview with Citizen TV on Thursday, Ojienda claimed that Raila had betrayed the opposition by joining forces with Ruto, who he accused of being corrupt and authoritarian. He said that Raila’s move had vindicated him and other ODM rebels who had opted to work with Ruto’s government last year.
“The Azimio coalition will split into smithereens because the hand of Raila will be seen as a hand that cannot be trusted to nurture the opposition. He has sold out the people’s interests to Ruto, who is looting the country and undermining democracy. We were right to support Ruto, who has shown respect and development to our region,” Ojienda said.
Ojienda, who is also a lawyer, said that he was ready to face any disciplinary action from ODM for his stance, adding that he had the backing of his constituents and other leaders from the Luo community. He said that he would not abandon Ruto, who he praised for supporting his son, who is vying for the Siaya gubernatorial seat.
“Ruto is our son-in-law and he has been very supportive of our son, who is running for governor. He has also initiated many projects in Kisumu and other parts of Nyanza. We are grateful to him and we will stand with him in 2024. Raila has done nothing for us, except using us as a stepping stone to power,” Ojienda said.
Ojienda’s remarks come amid growing rifts within the Azimio coalition, which was formed by Raila and Ruto last month, after they announced their surprise alliance. The coalition, which claims to have the support of over 30 political parties, has faced resistance from some of its members, who have accused Raila and Ruto of sidelining them and making unilateral decisions.
Some of the disgruntled members include ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetangula, and KANU leader Gideon Moi, who have threatened to quit the coalition and form their own alliance. They have also demanded that Raila and Ruto declare who will be the presidential candidate and who will be the running mate, saying that they will not accept a subordinate role.
The Azimio coalition is expected to hold a national delegates conference next week, where it will unveil its manifesto and structure. However, analysts have predicted that the coalition may not survive until the 2024 general election, given the mistrust and power struggles among its leaders.
