Uhuru to ODM critics: I don’t fear anyone

By Newsflash Reporter

Retired president Uhuru Kenyatta has pushed back against claims by a section of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders accusing him of fueling divisions within the party, insisting that while he is retired, he will not remain silent when provoked.

Uhuru’s remarks comes amid rising political tensions within ODM, with senior party figures openly linking him to alleged schemes to destabilise the party as it navigates internal succession politics.

ODM leaders point finger at Uhuru

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed have accused the former president of interfering in ODM affairs.

On Sunday, Wanga alleged that Uhuru had dispatched “mercenaries” to destroy the party from within.

Last week, Junet went further, claiming that Uhuru was planning to spend over Sh1 billion to “revamp” ODM, assertions that have intensified the political fallout.

The accusations have placed Uhuru at the centre of a growing storm, with ODM leaders questioning his intentions and influence long after leaving office.

‘I don’t fear anyone’

But speaking during the burial of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo at Lumakanda, Lugari, in Kakamega County on Tuesday, December 30, Uhuru dismissed the attacks, saying he does not fear anyone.

In veiled remarks seemingly directed at his critics, Uhuru said:
“I am retired..so I don’t want a lot of provocations. However, that does not mean when you poke me I remain quiet. I will respond as well. We don’t fear. Let’s respect each other.”

He urged political leaders to abandon confrontational politics, warning that personal attacks undermine national unity.
“Cyrus respected everyone. I respect him. I respect his party. Let’s others do the same. That’s the way to build our country, not through petty politics.”

Praise for Jirongo and unity call

Uhuru used the occasion to eulogise Jirongo as a fearless and inclusive leader, praising his political courage and national outlook.
“We have known each other with Jirongo for many years in politics and other things. I want to confirm that Jirongo was a friend to all.”
“Jirongo was not a tribalist. He helped everyone. He did not forget his friends.” He recalled Jirongo’s boldness early in life, saying:
“Jirongo was courageous. He didn’t fear anything. Even before he was 30 years, he could sit with the late President [Daniel] Moi and advise him. He was a man of courage.”
“He had the capacity of being the president of the republic of Kenya.”

Uhuru also revealed Jirongo’s role in his political journey.
“Jirongo introduced me into the KANU party. I later joined other political parties but our relations remained intact.”
“He respected the political space.” Turning to Western Kenya leaders, Uhuru urged unity and strategic organisation.
“As leaders from Western Kenya, sit down and unite. Join leaders from other regions in Kenya.”
“Form your own party and sell your agenda like Cyrus…not just uttering some useless remarks.”
“We want a united country.”

The burial was attended by several senior leaders, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.