By S, KNA
Jomvu Member of Parliament, Badi Twalib, has dismissed claims that Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) rallies are funded by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), emphasizing that both parties operate independently and calling for adherence to ODM structures amid ongoing negotiations.
Twalib made the remarks during a bursary disbursement event in Jomvu Constituency, Mombasa County, where he handed over scholarships to university students from humble backgrounds, whom he has been supporting through his personal initiative.
Responding to allegations raised by ODM Secretary General, Edwin Sifuna, regarding parallel funding for party activities, the MP stated that ODM campaigns have not received any support from UDA.
“As ODM, our campaigns have not been funded by the ruling party. UDA is an independent party and ODM is an independent party,” he said.
Badi recognized Dr. Oburu Oginga as the current party leader and urged members to respect party structures, drawing reference to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s emphasis on the same.
“I would like them to do the same and follow party structure. We cannot afford trading words,” Badi added.
The MP stressed the importance of strengthening ODM ahead of any negotiations with UDA, warning that internal divisions could weaken the party’s position.
“As a politician, my belief is that before any negotiation, strengthen your party. Right now, we should be focusing on strengthening our party. If we go as a weak lot, when we appear divided, we will be shortchanged,” he explained.
He noted that calls for a National Delegates Conference (NDC) would be addressed in due course, but the priority remains building party strength.
“We want moving forward to ensure that we bring many more supporters to the party so that we go together as ODM,” Badi said.
He cautioned against individuals seeking attention by invoking leaders’ names in public, advising them to address challenges in their respective areas first.
The MP expressed full support for key ODM leaders including Gladys Wanga and Junet Mohamed, defending the latter against criticism and highlighting that Raila Odinga maintained good relations with him until his passing.
Badi described the current challenges within ODM as normal following the loss of the party leader, adding that members are now aligning and focusing on service delivery.
“Right now, it is about service delivery to the people. When the time for politics comes, we shall politic, we shall stand on podiums and inform the people that when you gave me this opportunity, this was what I was able to deliver for you,” he stated.
The Jomvu legislator commended President William Ruto’s agenda, particularly the NYOTA project, which has attracted over 1.4 million applications from young people seeking business start-up support.
He highlighted that the initiative, though non-political, stands to benefit youth significantly and could contribute to the President’s support base.
“Elections are a process, not an event, and the president is in a process of adding more votes to his basket,” Badi observed.
The MP criticized leaders who engage in divisive statements while in office, urging them to focus on practical benefits for Kenyans.
