Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has strongly denied claims that he is trying to divide the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). He said he respects the party and its members and has no interest in interfering with its internal matters.
Uhuru was speaking on Tuesday during the burial of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo in Lumakanda, Kakamega County. He told mourners that those accusing him of causing divisions in ODM were wrong and misleading the public.
He called on politicians to stop blaming others and instead show clear leadership, courage, and honesty. Uhuru said leaders who keep shifting positions and trading accusations only confuse citizens and fail to move the country forward.
Although he said he is retired from active politics, Uhuru warned that he would not remain silent when unfairly attacked. He urged leaders to respect one another, saying Cyrus Jirongo was a leader who respected people across different political parties.
Uhuru praised Jirongo as a strong supporter of multiparty democracy, saying he understood the importance of respecting political parties and working together without destroying others. He noted that Kenya’s democratic space was built through great struggle and must be protected.
ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, who attended the burial, defended Uhuru and apologised to him on behalf of the party. Sifuna said some ODM leaders had insulted Uhuru for personal reasons and unfair political interests. He added that Uhuru had genuinely supported Raila Odinga and ODM with commitment and resources.
Uhuru also urged leaders from the western region to hold peaceful discussions among themselves and with leaders from other regions to help shape the country’s future. He stressed the importance of unity, dialogue, and respecting the will of the people.
The remarks come at a time of growing tension within ODM, with some party leaders allied to President William Ruto accusing Uhuru of interfering in the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, digital strategist Pauline Njoroge dismissed the claims, saying Uhuru is being unfairly blamed for ODM’s internal disagreements and has no reason to cause division since he is not seeking any political office.
The debate has renewed public discussion about leadership, party unity, and respect for democracy in Kenya.
