Imwatok Rebukes ODM Leadership Over “Indecent” Succession Battles Nairobi County Assembly Majority Leader Peter Imwatok has launched a scathing critique against senior ODM party officials, condemning the escalating public disputes over succession as a betrayal of the movement’s core values. In a firm statement, Imwatok characterized the current infighting as both premature and ill-conceived, arguing that those maneuvering for power are driven by individual ambition rather than the collective stability of the party. He emphasized that the focus should remain on the ideological foundation of the party rather than personal political gain.
The Majority Leader expressed deep disappointment in the conduct of party members following the passing of the long-standing opposition leader, Raila Odinga. Imwatok argued that if the leaders truly respected Odinga’s legacy, they would have prioritized a period of solemn reflection and national grieving. He suggested that the party should have observed an internal mourning period of at least three months to honor the late leader’s immense sacrifices before descending into what he described as “unnecessary and indecent noise.”
Drawing a sharp distinction between conviction and convenience, Imwatok reminded the ODM top brass that the party was built on discipline, inclusivity, and a deep respect for institutions. He noted that the recent bitter exchanges—specifically those involving factions surrounding Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and the current party leadership under Oburu Odinga—reveal a troubling lack of commitment to these principles. To Imwatok, the reckless political positioning and public bickering currently dominating the headlines suggest that for many, proximity to “Baba” was merely a tool for political leverage rather than a belief in his vision.
In his concluding remarks, Imwatok called for an immediate return to constructive internal dialogue to help shape the future of the Orange movement. He warned that the ongoing succession wars only serve to expose the opportunistic motives of certain leaders, urging them to put the party’s interests ahead of their own. By focusing on unity and the preservation of Odinga’s ideological heritage, Imwatok believes the party can navigate this transition with the dignity and strength that its supporters expect.
