Confusion a Gem MP, local ODM leaders clash over demonstrations

Confusion has rocked Gem Constituency political leadership over whether the residents should participate in today's anti-government demonstrations called by Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition leader Raila Odinga or not.

While Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo maintains that there will be no demonstrations in his constituency, area ODM officials (chairperson Nick Ochola and women leader Esther Omondi) are maintaining that they will heed calls to take to the streets in protest against the rising cost of living.

Speaking at Jina primary School grounds in Yala during the disbursement of education bursary, the MP insisted that Kenyans need to engage in more important things that will impact positively in their lives.

“What is important is the need to engage the government and have a conversation on how the taxes we pay can impact positively on our lives” he said.

Odhiambo said that Kenya was a peaceful nation and nothing will shake the tranquility that the country has enjoyed for decades.

ODM leaders differ with MP

However, ODM leaders who addressed a public gathering at Kodiaga called on the residents to ignore their MP’s calls to shun the demonstrations.

Ochola said that the demonstrations will begin at Akala and move to Wagai, Kodiaga and culminate at Yala.

Gem Orange Women Democrats chair, Mrs. Esther Omondi said the demonstrations will be peaceful and cautioned the MP against interfering with it.

“If somebody interferes with the peaceful demonstration, he will be held accountable,” said Mrs. Omondi.