Uhuru fires back, defends himself against ODM division claims

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Tuesday dismissed claims that he is attempting to divide the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying he respects the party and its members and has no interest in interfering with its internal affairs.

Speaking during the burial of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo in Lumakanda, Kakamega County, Uhuru told the gathering that those levelling accusations against him were mistaken.

The former president called on politicians to stop trading accusations and maintain clarity and courage in their leadership.

“In my view, someone who is confused, who keeps trying to please one side and then another, must stop making excuses. That kind of talk is meaningless to the ordinary citizen. Build your party, stand by it, and have a clear position — with courage and conviction. Endless back-and-forth talk, moving from place to place and trading accusations, does not take the country anywhere,” Uhuru said.

A seemingly agitated Uhuru went gloves off at his accusers, vowing not to take the attacks sitting down but showing readiness to face them head-on.

“I am retired but let me be clear: if you poke me in the eye, I will poke back. We are not afraid. No. Let us respect one another. Cyrus respected everyone. I respect him and I respect his party, and others should do the same,” he stated.

Uhuru paid tribute to Jirongo, describing him as a pillar of multiparty democracy.

“But our unity was never broken. Those standing here today acknowledge that if there was anyone who served as a custodian and pillar of the multiparty democracy movement, it was Cyrus Jirongo,” he said.

“He understood the meaning of democracy, the importance of respecting political parties, and the value of working with people from other parties without destroying their parties. He respected the political order that was created in this country through great struggle — that multiparty space.”

“On behalf of the party, I want to apologise to you, Uhuru, for the insults directed at you by some leaders of ODM who sought to advance their own agendas or to help their ‘father’ become president. Those of us who were there know the truth: you worked diligently, you were committed to helping him (Raila),” he said.

“You dedicated your resources and efforts. Today, some want to undermine the very work that was done. On behalf of the entire ODM party, because the party represents both its smart members and fools, I want to apologise for those insults that were directed unfairly.”

The retired president, at the same time, urged leaders, particularly from the western region, to engage in constructive dialogue without undermining democracy, emphasising on national unity and the importance of respecting the will of the people.

“I also agree with those who say that as leaders from the western region, take the initiative. Sit down, talk, and engage, because you are Kenyans just like everyone else. Once you have discussed among yourselves, you can engage with others from different regions and decide which direction you want our country to take,” he said.

The remarks come amid rising tensions within ODM, with some party leaders, including MP Junet Mohamed and Homa Bay governor Gladys Wanga, allied to President William Ruto, alleging that Uhuru is meddling in the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Digital strategist Pauline Njoroge dismissed the claims, saying internal disagreements within ODM are being unfairly blamed on the former president.

“It’s obvious that Uhuru Kenyatta’s popularity, even in ODM zones, is really bothering some people. Instead of dealing with their own internal disagreements, they have decided to make him the scapegoat. Uhuru is not a 2027 presidential candidate and therefore has no incentive to foment division,” Njoroge said.