Ababu Namwamba, the uncertain Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General, has become vocal after a long silence ruffling feathers within the ODM fraternity.
In what seems to be an effort to break free or ensure there is freedom in ODM, Namwamba has all of a sudden started criticising ideals of the party especially on democracy.
Last week, the Budalangi MP said he was consulting on whether to relinquish his position in ODM. He asked ODM’s leadership to address issues raised by MPs from western Kenya saying he would neither support nor participate in activities that seem to promote division.
Namwamba who has been on some sort of sabbatical said the country needed political leaders to shelve their differences and address increased cases of hate speech. This was the first time he was being heard in as many months.
On Sunday, after attending a church service at St Stephen’s ACK in Busia, criticised homecoming rallies spearheaded by Cord leader Raila Odinga for MPs arrested a fortnight ago over hate speech.
Raila attended the prayers held in Busia and Kilifi counties for woman representatives - Florence Mutua and Aisha Jumwa. The two were arrested and charged in court over hate remarks.
Namwamba said he would neither support nor participate in activities that seem to promote division.
"I will support the full force of law to be applied on anyone found guilty of hate speech. I will not support or involve myself in activities that may cast us as supporting those making inciting statements.”
He added, “We laid out our grievances and we know we will reach a solution. The party leadership is aware of our concerns.
Already, Funyula MP Paul Otuoma has resigned as the party vice-chairman in what is seen as disgruntled MPs breaking ranks with Cord’s senior leadership.
On Wednesday last week, Raila called for a truce in the party which has been dogged by rebellion by legislators from Western Kenya and Coast regions.
Namwamba, Funyula MP Paul Otuoma and Sirisia’s John Waluke attended the Wednesday meeting. Otuoma and Waluke have sided with Namwamba who has accused the party of side-lining legislators from western Kenya.
Otuoma and Waluke are not members of the central management committee but attended to help it address the concerns that they had raised.
Raila allegedly struck a reconciliatory tone and cautioned against the growing political posturing which could be used by opponents to undermine the party.