The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Raila Odinga, the opposition leader, called upon Lang’ata MP Felix Odiwour, popularly known as Jalang’o, and other rebels within the ODM party to step down from their positions if they wish to align themselves with Kenya Kwanza.
During an ODM recruitment event in Nairobi, Raila emphasized that those seeking closer ties with the government have no place remaining in Parliament under the ODM banner. He revealed that he had already communicated with Jalang’o and his counterparts, urging them to seek reelection with UDA if they have confidence in their beliefs.
“We have reached an understanding that all MPs elected under our party have a five-year term. If you intend to leave ODM for UDA, then relinquish your parliamentary positions and seek reelection under the UDA banner,” Raila stated.
In Nairobi, the Lang’ata MP was specifically mentioned, along with others, signaling a call for them to return to the electorate for a fresh mandate.
Jalang’o is part of the group of ODM MPs who have been cooperating with President William Ruto’s administration since the previous year. This group also includes Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, Suba MP Caroli Omondi, Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda, and Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo.
Following their actions, these MPs faced expulsion from ODM by the National Executive Committee, a decision which they contested in court.
In January, the Political Parties Tribunal ruled against ODM, invalidating the expulsion of the five MPs. The tribunal found the disciplinary proceedings to be irregular and the Disciplinary Committee not properly constituted, rendering the NEC decision null and void.
