Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana has moved to calm tensions within ODM after a public clash with the party’s Acting Secretary General Catherine Omanyo.
The disagreement began during an exchange linked to ongoing leadership disputes in the party. Omanyo accused Kibwana of undermining her during a discussion.
She claimed he questioned her ability to pronounce the word constitutionalism, which she felt was meant to embarrass her.
The matter quickly drew attention from party supporters and political observers. Many viewed it as a sign of deeper divisions within the Orange party.
Kibwana later issued an apology. He explained that he did not intend to disrespect or demean Omanyo.
He said correcting a minor language mistake should not be seen as an attack on someone’s leadership or competence. He also stressed that he values respect, especially when engaging with fellow leaders.
The former Governor further dismissed claims that he was acting on instructions from Edwin Sifuna, the former ODM Secretary General.
Omanyo had suggested that Kibwana could be part of a broader effort to weaken her position within the party. Kibwana denied this and maintained that his actions were independent.
The incident comes at a sensitive time for the Orange Democratic Movement. The party is facing visible internal divisions.
One faction supports closer cooperation with President William Ruto and the ruling United Democratic Alliance under the broad based government arrangement.