ODM faction backs Ruto's re-election but bans open campaigning
A surprising shift has emerged within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). The Oburu Oginga faction, long known for its opposition stance, has now declared support for President William Ruto's re-election. Yet, the group has also warned its members against openly campaigning for Ruto or his UDA party.
The Oburu Oginga faction has a history of resisting alliances with Ruto's government. During Ruto's time as Deputy President from 2013 to 2022, the faction opposed coalitions, seeing them as a betrayal of ODM's opposition roots. At the time, ODM leader Raila Odinga led the NASA coalition against the ruling administration.
This week, however, the faction's leaders broke from tradition by endorsing Ruto's bid for a second term. The move marks a notable departure from their past criticism. Despite this, they have instructed ODM members not to publicly back Ruto or his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in campaign activities.
The faction's endorsement of Ruto contrasts sharply with its earlier opposition to his government. While supporting his re-election, it has drawn a clear line against active campaigning for him or UDA. The stance leaves ODM members navigating a delicate balance between loyalty to the faction and party discipline.
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