According to Omondi, Raila had given specific directives about who should discuss the possibility of Ruto serving a second term, and the reasons behind this strict guidance.
Omondi stated that Raila had made it clear that only two individuals—Treasury MP John Mbadi and Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi—were authorized to speak publicly on the issue of Ruto’s re-election.
"Raila told us not to use two terms, but only MP Sam Atandi raised his hand, claiming his position as a member of the Budget Committee," Omondi revealed.
Atandi, who was eager to discuss the matter, reportedly insisted that he should be allowed to voice his opinion on the likelihood of Ruto being re-elected for a second term.
However, the late Raila Odinga remained firm in his instructions and declined Atandi's request, citing that only Mbadi and Wandayi were permitted to speak on the subject.
The late Raila Odinga, who passed away in August 2023, was known for his political astuteness and often gave clear, strategic directions to his party members.
Omondi's revelations have now raised eyebrows about the internal dynamics of ODM and Raila's vision for the future of the party and the country’s political landscape.
While the reasons behind Raila’s strict instructions remain unclear, the revelation sheds new light on the party’s internal operations and the control Raila held over his party’s narrative during the heated election cycle.
This disclosure has sparked conversations on both political and personal fronts, leaving many wondering what other behind-the-scenes directives were at play in the ODM’s efforts during the 2022 elections.