‘Tutam’ vs ‘Wantam’: Political rivalry takes centre stage at Raila memorial

The exchange saw supporters of both camps chant their respective “Tutam” and “Wantam” slogans as the leaders fiercely defended their political positions.

There was little doubt about the deepening divisions among leaders who convened in Bondo to mark the first anniversary of Raila Odinga’s death.

When Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati took to the podium to address the gathering, he was emphatic that the Orange party remained committed to the broad-based government arrangement, adding that those unwilling to stay were free to leave.

Arati maintained that ODM would conduct free and fair party primaries, including for the Nairobi senatorial seat, while taking a swipe at those he accused of leaving the party due to sponsorship.

“ODM will conduct free primaries, including those of the Nairobi senatorial seat. Tunaomba msibaki. Lakini ukiondoka kwa sababu ya sponsor ni sawa,” Arati said.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi also defended the political arrangement, warning those he accused of attempting to undermine the party.

“Wale wanafikiria wanaeza kuendelea kutunyanyasa kutumia sisi wasahau. Hapa ni ngome ya Dr Oburu, ya ODM na ya Ruto,” Wandayi said.

There were notable absences of pro-government leaders at the event, with ODM party leader Oburu Oginga also missing after requesting to be excused, according to leaders who addressed the gathering. A speech was read on his behalf by his deputy.

In the message, Oburu described ODM as a strong political institution built by Raila, saying the party had a responsibility to preserve the former PrimeMminister’s legacy.

“Baba left us a robust institutional political movement,” Arati said while delivering the message.

Meanwhile, the breakaway faction of ODM, whose members have since formed The Equitable Party (TEP) and The Mwananchi Party (TMP) and aligned themselves with the opposition, was present at the memorial.

The faction led chants of “One Term”, signalling its opposition to President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.

Former ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna said Raila had left the country a legacy of democratic struggle that his supporters were determined to defend.

“Baba left us to defend democracy,” Sifuna said.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino echoed the remarks, saying the faction would continue pursuing the political course set by the late opposition leader.

“We will pursue the course Baba left us to do,” Owino said.

Siaya Governor James Orengo also called for a political shift, declaring that President Ruto should serve only one term.

“Ruto must be one term,” Orengo said.

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka said the opposition was committed to defending the democratic ideals championed by Raila, while former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa insisted that the opposition remained aligned with the late leader’s supporters.

“We are defending Raila’s democracy,” Kalonzo said.