The group, led by ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, said the Kenya Kwanza administration must fully implement the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report and other agreed reforms well before the 2027 General Election.
They warned that ODM should not be taken for granted, insisting that support for President Ruto would only come after the government delivers on all commitments under the 10-point agenda.
Speaking during rallies held on Sunday in Busia and Siaya counties, the leaders made it clear that they would only sign a new political pact with President Ruto if he fulfils the agreed reforms—originally negotiated with the late Raila Odinga.
The fresh conditions place the responsibility squarely on President Ruto to honour the agreement reached with Raila before his death on October 15.
The rallies marked the launch of a nationwide “Linda Mwananchi” campaign by politicians opposed to the proposed broad-based government.
The leaders said the movement aims to protect ODM’s core values and the political philosophy championed by Raila Odinga during his leadership of the party.
The group maintained that no individual has the authority to expel them from ODM and reaffirmed their commitment to the party’s long-standing tradition of advocating for the rights of ordinary citizens.
Among those present were Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, among others.
During their speeches, the leaders sharply criticised ongoing talks between President Ruto and Dr Oginga, warning that they would use the “Linda Mwananchi” rallies to prevent ODM from being absorbed into government.
Senator Sifuna said the leaders gathered in Busia were the true custodians of Raila Odinga’s legacy and would not allow the party to be taken over by outsiders.
He added that the government has until March 7 to implement the 10-point agenda, stressing that the deadline would not be extended.
Governor Orengo accused a faction aligned to Dr Oginga of plotting to “sell out” the party, vowing to resist any such move.
He further pledged that, despite threats, the group would continue to speak out against what he described as the shortcomings of President Ruto’s administration.
