The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leadership has relaxed its firm stance against the perceived rebel Members of Parliament, who were sanctioned after a meeting with President William Ruto in February 2023. 

ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga says that the rebel MPs are now welcome back to the party, but must be effectively vetted and subjected to proper political cleansing.

She has at the same time dismissed the perception that ODM party has been consumed by Ruto’s UDA party owing to the current working relationship.

Wanga, who is also the governor for Homa Bay, stated that the ODM party is still strong under the leadership of Raila Odinga, adding that he is the one who will be giving them direction.

The ODM party chairperson made the remarks during a reunion meeting that was hosted by Azimio leader Raila Odinga for his clansmen in his late father’s home at Nyamira Kang’o in Bondo constituency, where Siaya governor James Orengo echoed similar sentiments.

Orengo stated that the rebel MPs are welcomed but must take a back seat when they return to the party.

On his part, Migori governor Ochilo Ayacko called on the need for strengthening the ODM party, reiterating that the party must remain strong even if they are in good working relationship with the Kenya Kwanza administration.  

The said rebel MPs include Caroli Omondi (Suba South), Tom Ojienda (Kisumu), Mark Nyamita (Uriri), Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Felix Jalang’o Odiwuor (Lang’ata) and Gideon Ochanda (Bondo).

After their meeting with President Ruto in 2023, party leader Raila Odinga accused the legislators of betrayal, asking them to resign and seek re-election under new political outfits. 

Five of the MPs were expelled by ODM's National Executive Committee after the party determined that their actions went against the official party position.