ODM Leaders Warn of Possible Protests as Ruto Administration Faces Rising Tensions

President William Ruto and his Kenya Kwanza administration may be heading for another turbulent phase with the opposition, following renewed criticism from Raila Odinga’s ODM party.

The party’s leadership has adopted a more assertive tone, signaling a fresh wave of resistance against Kenya Kwanza. On Saturday, ODM leaders, led by acting party leader Anyang' Nyong'o, cautioned the government to brace for possible demonstrations if it fails to meet the people’s expectations.

Emphasizing the need for grassroots engagement, the party urged President Ruto to listen to the citizens and fulfill his mandate. Nyong’o warned that ODM would not always intervene to defuse political tensions, as it did during the Gen Z demonstrations.

Speaking at the burial of the late Professor Bethwel Ogot in Yala, Gem, Siaya County, Nyong’o advised the government to prioritize service delivery or risk facing public outrage again.

"We understand the direction Kenya is headed, and we know the needs of our people. A few months ago, this country was on the brink due to the Gen Z protests, and it was ODM and Raila who stepped in to restore calm. However, we cannot always be firefighters. The government must be aware that unrest can arise at any time unless they focus on working for the people," said Nyong’o.

He added that ODM would only step in to assist in the future if the government demonstrated a genuine commitment to its responsibilities.

"If the government refuses to listen, they should be ready for another round of demonstrations from the people," Nyong’o cautioned.

Siaya Governor James Orengo echoed Nyong’o’s sentiments, warning that ODM’s support would not help the government unless it met the people's needs.

Orengo asserted that ODM leaders should be capable of shaping the country’s trajectory, emphasizing that Nyanza, like any other region, deserved government benefits without necessarily offering political support, as they are taxpayers.

"I speak the truth without fear. We are part of this nation and contribute to its economy. Like any other region, we have the right to benefit from the government. When I speak, it is from a position of strength, and even President Ruto knows this. No one should make the people of Nyanza feel like they belong here by accident," he said.

He reiterated that the Luo community remained committed to pursuing the presidency, a goal achievable by strengthening ODM.

However, Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, who was also at the burial, noted that the African Union Commission (AUC) election had provided Nyanza with valuable lessons, particularly regarding their true allies.

Wandayi, a senior ODM member, hinted at shifting political dynamics, emphasizing that those who align with perceived adversaries would be treated accordingly.

"We now know our true friends and those who do not support us. President Ruto has proven to be a genuine ally. He stood with Raila throughout his AUC bid," said Wandayi.

Deputy Chief of Staff Eliud Owalo highlighted the government's commitment to Nyanza’s development, asserting that past marginalization was being addressed under President Ruto’s leadership.

Owalo revealed that ten key projects had been agreed upon for Nyanza, including the Lake Victoria Ring Road, Koru-Soin Dam, fish processing plants, and the revitalization of the sugar, cotton, and mining industries.

"I assure you that under this government, we aim to achieve tangible economic progress in Nyanza. As leaders from this region within the administration, we are united in advancing its development agenda," he said.

Meanwhile, tributes continued to flow for the late Prof. Ogot as he was laid to rest.

In a tribute read by Prof. Adams Oloo, Raila Odinga described Ogot as a distinguished scholar who reshaped historical narratives about Africa.

Raila noted that through meticulous research, Ogot disproved the Eurocentric claim that Africa had no history before colonialism.

"In both his academic work and personal life, Prof. Ogot was authentic, profound, humble, and deeply professional. I personally benefited from his scholarly depth and humility," Raila stated.

In a tribute read by Owalo, President Ruto hailed Prof. Ogot as a national hero and a brilliant thinker whose contributions significantly advanced the country.

"He was an exceptional scholar whose work inspired many. His leadership extended beyond academia, and his patriotism, commitment, and integrity were exemplary," said Ruto.