Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu has called for respect for the ODM party within Kenya’s broad-based government, warning that recent remarks by some United Democratic Alliance (UDA) members could trigger a fallout between the two parties.
Speaking during a funeral service in Kisumu East on Saturday, Buyu said ODM’s contribution to national stability, especially during after the 2024 Gen Z protests against President Ruto must not be ignored.
She pointed to the influence of the late Raila Amolo Odinga, arguing that his actions helped keep the country steady when it mattered most.
“As an equal partner, we demand respect. We have seen some UDA members speak as though they do not recognise the sacrifices that have been made. This country stands today because of those efforts,” the Kisumu West MP said.
Her comments come amid growing debate within the broadbased government over strategy and power-sharing formula under the broad-based framework that brought together rival ODM and UDA factions. Buyu cautioned that dismissive rhetoric by the ruling party could erode trust between the two partners and weaken the ODM-UDA coalition’s effectiveness.
“When the Gen Zs came out to protest, it is Raila Odinga who ensured that this government remained in place. How can leaders now speak as if that contribution does not matter? There must be mutual respect in this arrangement.”
Buyu also addressed zoning proposal by ODM to UDA where she strongly defended zoning within ODM strongholds, particularly in areas where the party enjoys significant grassroots support.
She dismissed claims that zoning was meant to impose preferred candidates, instead describing it as a tool for party organisation and survival.
“Zoning is not about imposing individuals. It is about protecting the strength of the party and ensuring that our structures remain intact in regions where our support base is strongest,” Buyu said.
The MP insisted that aspirants seeking elective positions in ODM-dominated regions should follow the party’s nomination processes, which she said are transparent and democratic.
“We are not saying there will be only one candidate,” she explained. “Those who want to contest are welcome to join ODM and go through free and fair nominations. What we will not accept is attempts to undermine the party from outside.”
