ODM woos Kalonzo and Matiang’i as 2 MPs defect to MDG

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has renewed its appeal to Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Jubilee’s Fred Matiang’i to join the party, accusing sections of the opposition of deliberately sidelining the two leaders in the 2027 presidential race. The appeal was made as ODM received former West Pokot Senator and gubernatorial hopeful Samuel Poghisio, who defected from KANU. Deputy party leader Simba Arati touted President William Ruto’s re-election prospects, citing his track record, while accusing the opposition of lacking a clear agenda for the country. However, ODM is also facing defections of its own, with two MPs from Busia County joining David Ochieng-led Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG). The lawmakers accused ODM of losing its political foothold in the county, as MDG’s leader questioned the opposition’s alternatives for Kenyans.