Africa-Press – Kenya. The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has strongly defended its long-standing commitment to dialogue, pushing back against critics who have branded the party a “sellout” for choosing engagement over confrontation in Kenya’s political landscape.
Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Nassir said the accusations are not new and have followed the party throughout its history, even at the height of its influence under founding leader Raila Amolo Odinga.
He maintained that ODM’s approach has always been anchored in the pursuit of power for the people, not political expediency.
“For far too long, as we pursue power for the people, we have been called sellouts. We have been told we are divided, that some have left us, and that our leadership is old. That is not news,” Abdulswamad said during a party address.
Tracing ODM’s roots to the struggle for constitutional reforms, Abdulswamad noted that the party was built on the ideals of devolving power and strengthening democratic governance.
He argued that dialogue has been central to achieving those gains, particularly in moments of political tension before and after elections.
He dismissed the notion that engaging opponents amounts to weakness, instead framing it as a demonstration of maturity and leadership.
“To talk is not weakness. It takes strength to sit down with those you disagree with and find a way forward. Anyone can stand and insult, but real leadership is knowing when not to use a hammer to kill a fly,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing criticism from some political quarters and sections of the public who view ODM’s openness to dialogue as a compromise of its principles.
However, Abdulswamad insisted that the party’s strategy is deliberate and rooted in its identity as a people-driven movement.
He described ODM as more than just a political party, calling it a resilient movement forged through struggle, sacrifice, and the collective will of Kenyans. According to him, this foundation has enabled the party to withstand sustained political pressure and remain relevant over the years.
In the same breath, Abdulswamad reaffirmed his loyalty to the party’s new leader, Oburu Odinga, urging members to rally behind him and respect the party’s internal democratic processes.
“I call on all those who may have strayed to return. This party was built on principles, structures, and sacrifice. If those structures make a decision, then that decision must be respected, whether it serves individual interests or not,” he said.
He framed the leadership transition as part of a broader continuity of ODM’s mission, invoking the legacy of Raila Odinga as a symbol of perseverance and commitment to justice. Abdulswamad said the party remains focused on ensuring that power ultimately rests with the people.
Despite the criticism, Abdulswamad said that ODM is determined to stay its course, arguing that dialogue remains a critical tool in navigating Kenya’s complex political environment.
As political tensions continue to shape the national discourse, Abdulswamad’s message signals a party unwilling to abandon its principles, insisting that the courage to engage, rather than confront, is what will ultimately deliver meaningful change for Kenyans.
