If the recent actions of coastal Members of Parliament to skip Raila’s rallies in the region are anything to go by, then the ODM party has an uphill task in retaining support in regions it formerly held so strongly.
Indeed the party’s popularity is waning so fast and on a downward spiral especially in Western and Coastal regions, as the country hurtles towards 2022 general election. Various leaders from the aforementioned regions have come out to accuse ODM leader Raila Odinga of playing politics devoid of issues but malice and selfishness.
Recently, ODM members played an instrumental role in acquitting Governor Waiguru of corruption charges, in a clear and cut case of abuse of office. The acquittal provided fodder for ODM opponents and a platform upon which they launched legitimate criticism against the ideals so proudly held by the party. This has translated into Raila losing allies in the regions he has formerly commanded strong following and support as his political nemesis William Ruto gains.
Mudavadi’s political star has been on a meteoric rise in Western region as Ruto has continuously made forays in Coastal region and parts of Nyanza region (Kisii). Certain ODM mps skipped Raila’s visit hosted by Kakamega Governor and ODM Deputy Party leader Wycliffe Oparanya recently. The same was replicated by Kilifi MPs as Raila toured the coastal region. Could this be the proverbial writings on the wall of ODM’s sunset days in the national political space? Only time will tell.
The Writer is a Lawyer and host of Sheria Mtaani Programme.
