The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal has issued temporary orders, effectively putting a halt to the expulsion of Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda and Members of Parliament Elisha Odhiambo (Gem) and Felix ‘Jalang’o’ Odiwuor (Lang’ata) from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). These orders, which were issued on Tuesday, are pending the upcoming hearing of a case filed just a day earlier, challenging the trio’s expulsion on allegations of violating the party’s constitution.
The court’s decision, articulated in official documents, reads, “In the interim and pending the hearing and determination of this Application, this Honourable Tribunal hereby issues interim conservatory orders staying the implementation and/or execution of the decision of the 1st Respondent to expel the Complainant/Applicant, Hon. Phelix Odiwuor Kodhe, from the Orange Democratic Movement Party.”
This legal twist in the saga means that, for now, Ojienda, Odhiambo, and Jalang’o will retain their positions within the party. The case’s next hearing has been scheduled for September 25, providing ample time for both sides to present their arguments and evidence.
The expulsion of the mentioned members last Wednesday left many shocked through the ODM ranks. The charges against them revolved around alleged violations of ODM’s constitution and the Political Parties Act of 2011. They were accused of openly associating with and supporting activities of a rival political outfit Kenya Kwanza, as well as opposing lawful decisions made by party organs.
ODM leader Raila Odinga, in a meeting with Migori County ODM delegates held on the following Friday, defended the party’s decision to expel the five members. Odinga stressed the importance of unity and discipline within the party, emphasizing that the ODM can only remain strong when its members stand together. He viewed the actions of the expelled members as betrayals of the party’s trust and principles.
In a bold challenge, Odinga called upon the expelled members to take the high road by resigning from their elective seats and seeking fresh mandates from the people on new party tickets. This statement further escalated tensions within the party, as it implied that the ODM leadership did not intend to back down from its decision to expel the members.
The unfolding legal battle, coupled with Odinga’s strong stance, sets the stage for a significant showdown within the ODM. As the matter heads to court, all eyes will be on the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal to carefully consider the arguments and evidence presented and reach a fair and just decision. Meanwhile, the ODM will struggle with the delicate task of maintaining party unity while addressing internal disputes, all while the Kenyan political landscape continues to evolve in the run-up to the next elections.
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