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Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) deputy party leader Simba Arati has affirmed that the party will continue holding the Kenya Kwanza administration accountable, even as it remains part of the broad-based government.
Speaking in Nakuru town during a tour of the city, Arati said ODM will stay true to the principles championed by its late leader Raila Odinga — democracy, justice, and good governance.
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He insisted that the party will not turn a blind eye to human rights violations or government excesses, noting that ODM will uphold its cooperation agreement with the government until 2027, after which it will chart its own political path.
“Being in a broad-based government does not mean ignoring violations of human rights or misuse of power. As ODM, we will continue to speak out and defend what is right,” Arati said.
The Kisii Governor criticized some actions of the current regime, accusing it of corruption, extrajudicial killings, and abuse of authority — practices he said Raila Odinga fought against all his life.
“Baba may be gone, but he left behind loyal soldiers ready to continue the struggle for Kenya’s liberation. I urge all Kenyans, especially the youth, to stand firm and protect this nation,” he added.
Arati recalled a 2023 incident in which GSU officers were allegedly sent to intimidate him, saying it was an example of the state’s heavy-handedness.
His remarks come amid internal wrangles within ODM following Raila’s death. The party’s Central Organizing Committee appointed Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga as interim leader, sparking divisions among members.
Arati is said to be aligned with a faction led by ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, while another faction — led by Chairperson Gladys Wanga and Cabinet Secretaries John Mbadi, Hassan Joho, and Opiyo Wandayi — supports continued cooperation with the government.
Arati drew massive crowds in Nakuru, where he emphasized his mission to unite party members and strengthen ODM’s traditional support bases while expanding its reach across the country.
