Mbadi, Owino, and Orengo in Heated ODM Showdown

Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has cautioned ODM members against renewed calls for street protests, warning that such actions could deepen divisions within the party. 

He urged leaders to prioritize dialogue and strategic approaches over confrontational politics.

Speaking on Ramogi TV Wednesday morning, Mbadi emphasized that disagreements should be resolved through calm discussion. 

He reminded party members that ODM’s core mission is to offer hope and solutions for supporters, not to escalate tensions unnecessarily.

Mbadi stressed the importance of political strategy, noting that protests alone rarely produce lasting change. 

He encouraged party members to address differences thoughtfully, relying on planning and negotiation rather than emotionally charged mass mobilization.

The CS also reminded Kenyans that while protests have historically drawn attention to government failings, they are not the most effective solution. 

Diplomacy and inclusive national dialogue remain better tools for resolving political and social challenges.

He invoked the late Raila Odinga’s emphasis on consultation, highlighting that dialogue and negotiation should be the party’s preferred approach. 

Leaders pushing protests risk harming both ODM’s unity and its credibility among Kenyans.

Mbadi specifically expressed concern about some politicians from the Nyanza region encouraging mass action rather than measured political engagement.

 He stressed that true leadership requires foresight, strategy, and community-wide thinking over short-term mobilization.

The tension follows speculation of divisions within ODM over cooperation with President William Ruto’s government. 

While some members support engagement, others worry it may compromise the party’s principles and alienate supporters.

The disputes intensified after Embakasi East MP Babu Owino threatened nationwide demonstrations over rising living costs.

 He warned that escalating education and commodity prices could push frustrated citizens back to the streets.

Siaya Governor James Orengo added to the tension by criticizing the government’s performance and declaring his readiness to join mass action.

 He stressed that ODM must remain fearless and uphold the values Raila Odinga championed, even amid internal disagreements.