Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has criticized the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) Linda Ground faction led by Oburu Odinga, cautioning that the Western region might reassess its political stance if it continues to be marginalized.
Speaking in Lugari, Kakamega County, on Friday, April 24, Oparanya voiced his discontent with what he described as an increasing disregard for Western leaders within the party’s current leadership.
The former ODM deputy party leader compared the current situation with the leadership approach of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, stating that the region previously received recognition and respect under his guidance.
“I want to tell those leaders of ODM, this time, do not take us for granted. Raila respected us. Now, those leading ODM after Raila’s death should also respect us. If they do not respect us, we will quit,” Oparanya said.
He added that they now feel excluded from important decisions and power-sharing arrangements.
According to the CS, the current leadership appears more focused on gaining influence within President William Ruto’s administration than addressing the needs of grassroots supporters.
“We were very close, and we were even leaders in those parties. Yet now they are just continuing with their activities. They are now just demanding power,” the CS stated.
“They have forgotten the people of Western. We also want power. They should not think that they are the only ones who want power,” he added.
Oparanya warned that the alleged continued neglect of the Western region could provoke a political realignment before the 2027 General Elections.
Oparanya’s remarks come amid growing divisions within the ODM party that have led to the formation of a rival Linda Mwanachi faction led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
While the Linda Ground faction is accused of sidelining the Western region, the division is particularly pronounced in ODM strongholds.
The Linda Mwananchi movement is scheduled to begin its activities in Vihiga on Saturday, April 25, before moving to Kisumu on Sunday, April 26, for the main rally.
His comments also coincide with planned discussions between ODM and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) regarding a new broad-based political framework for the 2027 General Election.