Arati tells Matiang’i, Kalonzo to ditch opposition and join ODM

Nairobi, Kenya – Opposition leaders Simba Arati, Fred Matiang’i, and Kalonzo Musyoka have come under fire for their inability to unite and form a cohesive political strategy, according to ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati. Speaking out amid internal opposition divisions, Arati accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of contributing to the disintegration of the opposition through his demands and comments about the alliance's leadership.

"Those opposition people, do they have a sense of direction really? They don’t have a plan or even brains. You have seen how they are disintegrating," Arati declared.

The proposal from Gachagua for Rigathi, Kalonzo, and Edwin Sifuna to lead the opposition has sparked debate over the coalition's leadership structure and candidate selection. Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang’i expressed concerns over what he termed as "majoritarian arrogance," warning that such attitudes could hinder the opposition's chances of uniting.

"That majoritarian arrogance and that particular pride is precisely what is going to split the opposition and make it very difficult for the opposition to come together," Matiang’i cautioned.

The disagreements over the coalition have exposed competing interests among opposition leaders, with factions vying for power within the proposed alliance. The tension was further highlighted during the unveiling of Sifuna’s political movement in Nairobi, where Kalonzo Musyoka received a hostile reception, with supporters chanting Sifuna’s name.

Arati used this backdrop to personally urge Matiang’i and Kalonzo to reconsider their positions and join ODM, offering the party as a platform for a united political movement. "My brother Matiang’i, have a second thought and come, let us build ODM and we will go together as one," Arati implored. He also addressed Kalonzo, urging him not to be discouraged by the opposition's internal strife.

"My brother Kalonzo, whom I have immense respect for, don’t entertain this disrespect. Don’t have a heavy heart. Come and join us because President William Ruto will win the 2027 election," Arati stated.