ODM’s Fallout? MP Caleb Amisi Sounds Alarm Over UDA Deal

Since bursting onto Kenya’s political scene in 2005, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has firmly staked its claim on the left wing –championing social democracy, green politics, and liberal ideals. 

By default, and design, it has positioned itself as the outspoken counterweight to the ruling establishment, embracing its role as the persistent voice of opposition.

Thanks to its enduring appeal, ODM has consistently rallied public support behind its  founder, Raila Odinga –elevating him to the centre stage of every electoral season.

Even in defeat, the party never loses its footing; it remains a formidable force in Parliament, wielding influence through strong representation in both the Senate and National Assembly.

However, ODM is bleeding from within, its political stamina waning fast amid a storm of internal rebellion. A controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has fractured the party into bitter factions: loyalists rallying behind Raila Odinga and critics crying betrayal of ODM’s founding ideals. 

The pact has ignited fury both inside and outside the party, casting doubt over its ideological compass and long-standing opposition legacy.

Saboti Member of Parliament (MP) Caleb Amisi has painted black and white on the MoU, which has since been coined the Broad-Based Government. He has accused ODM loyalists backing the pact of hijacking the party’s mission for personal gain, painting a stark picture of betrayal and political capture at the heart of the deal.

“This agreement has raised questions of whether we still believe in the manifestos, and what we stood for when we joined the party. And, there are people who have captured the party for their own benefit, and they keep boasting, saying, 'We're enjoying the government, we'll support the President forever, for posterity,” Amisi stated.

He has urged former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to step in and restore order within ODM, warning that time is running out. According to him, decisive leadership is urgently needed; otherwise, the party risks disintegration under internal strain.

The MP has further hinted at leaving ODM if the party does not do away with President William Ruto’s UDA, saying, “If ODM continues collaborating with William Ruto, then I will not seek re-election on that party. But if it pulls out, realigns, and retraces its steps back to its roots, then we can agree.”