Raila speaks after a section of ODM leaders endorse Joho for party leader role

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga has cautioned Coast leaders after they endorsed former Mombasa governor Hassan Joho to be the next party leader.

Speaking in Malindi, Kilifi County, on Sunday March 31, 2024, Raila warned that regional endorsements in different parts of the country may lead to divisions within the party.

According to Raila, continued endorsements of candidates based on their region may lead to splitting of ODM.

“We need everyone in our team because that is the only way we can be strong. We do not want these campaigns that can break the party,” said Raila.

“It is good that Coast has given their views stating that they want Hassan Joho but do not say that because he comes from the area,” he added.

ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga with coastal leaders attending the annual fundraiser in aid of the Malindi Islamic Center at Markaz Darul Aitam Orphanage in Malindi on March 31, 2024. PHOTO: ABDULSWAMAD SHERRIF NASSIR

At the same time, the ODM party leader challenged leaders from Kwale, Kilifi and Mombasa counties to give genuine reasons as to why they believe Joho qualifies to become party leader.

In addition, he noted that when the time for him to step down comes, ODM members should consult widely before picking on a leader to replace him.

Raila further explained that every leader within the party, who is interested in becoming the next party leader would be given a fair chance to contest for the position, adding that ODM was the most democratic party in East and Central Africa.

Other leaders who have shown interest in replacing Raila as party leader include former Kakamega governor Wycliffe Oparanya, ODM Chairman John Mbadi and National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi.