Jalang’o defies ODM disciplinary measures

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has begun disciplinary proceedings against 28 lawmakers who defied the party’s position and voted for or abstained from the Finance Bill 2023 vote in parliament.

The party’s secretary general, Edwin Sifuna, said that the lawmakers had been given 48 hours to respond to why disciplinary action should not be taken against them.

Those who have not yet responded include Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor alias Jalang’o, Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo, and 11 other pro-President William Ruto MPs.

Sifuna said that the responses so far received are being processed in accordance with Rule 11 of the ODM Disciplinary Committee (Practice and Procedure) Rules, 2022.

The party has also expressed regret for incorrectly placing Tom Joseph Kajwang, a member of parliament for Ruaraka, on the list of opposition MPs who opposed the Finance Bill, 2023.

The disciplinary action against the 28 lawmakers is the latest in a series of moves by the ODM party to crack down on dissent within its ranks.

In recent months, the party has expelled several members, including former Nairobi governor Mike Sonko and former Kakamega senator Cleophas Malala.

The party’s disciplinary committee is expected to make a decision on the 28 lawmakers in the coming days.