A senior Orange Democratic Movement leader has dismissed claims that the party is struggling to hold its grip onGusii and western strongholds following penetration of the Jubilee coalition.
The two regions have witnessed defections with former ODM secretary general Ababu Namwamba, Funyula MP Paula Otuoma and Kisii Senator Chris Obure among the high profile leaders who have openly accused the party of allegedly shortchanging their regions
But Kitutu Masaba MP Timothy Bosire has insisted that Raila’s visits to western region and the recent tour in Gusii were pre-planned hence not organised to counter rebellion.
“As the ODM we are sure of the Gusii and western Kenya votes. The rebels have nothing substantial and its only that they wanted to take a break of which is welcome,” he said.
“The tourw of former Prime Minister to western and earlier in Nyamira were pre-planned and has nothing to do with pressure from the rebels. The regions are intact in ODM and no one should create a mindset that opposition has lost them,” added the ODM national treasurer.
He accused rebels of selfish interests and warned them again decamping the party insisting that they will suffer ‘serious’ consequences.
“Those bring a rift in the party have nothing substantial. They are only advancing their selfish interests and not what they purport. They should be ready for serious consequences if they continue opposing party ideologies in our strongholds,” he said.