Mombasa: Former Rangwe Constituency Member of Parliament George Oner has called on leaders from the Luo Nyanza region to exercise calm, unity, and decorum within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, urging them to resolve differences internally rather than through public statements that could weaken the party.
According to Kenya News Agency, Oner spoke in Mombasa during a community engagement with Rangwe diaspora constituents, describing the current tensions in ODM as normal consequences following the loss of a long-standing pillar who held the party together for two decades. Oner noted that the absence of the late party leader Raila Odinga has created jitters within the party, with some members seeing opportunities to take over leadership while others feel that the glue that held the party together is no longer there.
The former legislator made a direct appeal to the Luo community, which forms the bedrock of ODM, to remain steadfast and united under the party to safeguard its future. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the party’s strength not only within the Luo land but also as a beacon of hope for other communities.
Oner urged Luo politicians and leaders to exercise restraint in their public utterances, emphasizing that divisive statements undermine party unity and weaken both the community and the nation. He advised that sometimes silence can be more beneficial than speaking if the discourse leads to division.
He underscored the critical role ODM plays in the governance of Kenya, describing it as a key institution for maintaining checks and balances in the country. Oner highlighted the necessity of ODM’s presence to counteract injustice and maintain democratic integrity.
He also called on all communities that have supported ODM to remain committed to building it as a truly national party. Oner’s appeal was supported by Luo spokesperson Mombasa, Pius Oketch, who thanked him for his consistent support of the bursary program and for attending the event to witness the disbursement. Oketch also expressed gratitude to Lumumba Owade, MCA South East Nyakach Ward Kisumu County, for accompanying Oner.
Oketch noted that a significant number of residents from Rangwe Constituency attended the event, where they compared notes on leadership and development. He observed notable differences during Oner’s tenure as MP and after his exit, adding that constituents in Mombasa strongly feel the need for his return to Parliament. The group agreed to rally support for Oner’s candidacy in the 2027 race.
