Raila backs governors in row with Ruto, MPs
ODM leader Raila Odinga during Eid Baraza in Mombasa County on April 5, 2025.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has thrown his weight behind county governors in their escalating battle with Members of Parliament and the national government over control of road funding, the construction of markets, and unbundling of devolved functions, saying devolution is under attack.
Speaking in Mombasa during Eid Baraza celebrations, Mr Odinga criticised the push by MPs to seize control of the Roads Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF), arguing that such moves undermine the constitutional mandate of county governments.
“Why should MPs be constructing roads in their constituencies? Their work is to legislate—not to supervise roads or handle funds meant for counties,” Mr Odinga said.
“Let’s respect the Constitution and allow counties to perform their functions effectively.”
His remarks come amid mounting tension between the Council of Governors and lawmakers over proposals to transfer control of billions of shillings from county governments to the national level through amendments to the Kenya Roads Board Act.
'Assault to devolution'
Governors have protested the plan, terming it an assault on devolution.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) noted that infrastructure development such as road construction is a devolved function and should be managed by the respective counties.
“We agreed with President Ruto that counties should receive Sh450 billion. These funds must not be diverted or misappropriated. Devolved functions must be supported with the necessary resources,” Mr Odinga said.
He also took issue with the national government’s involvement in projects traditionally handled by counties, such as markets and health centres.
“What business does the national government have building a market in Majengo, Mombasa? That is a county function. The Constitution is clear,” he said.
President William Ruto in 2023 promised to spend Sh20 billion to construct 400 markets across Kenya.
Turning to internal party matters, Mr Odinga urged ODM members to approach the upcoming grassroots elections with unity and sobriety, saying internal competition should not lead to divisions.
“Let this be a friendly fire—not a war. We are one family,” he said, calling on members to avoid hostility and violence during the party polls.
The party is set to hold ward-level elections across all 47 counties on Monday, April 7, followed by constituency-level elections on Wednesday, April 9. Only delegates elected at the polling unit level will participate.
ODM Secretary-General and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna also addressed supporters, affirming the party’s strength amid political noise.
“Our party is strong. No one will intimidate us. Let us stand by it and move forward together,” Mr Sifuna said.
The former Prime Minister also used the platform to reiterate his stand against corruption, blaming graft for stalling development and impoverishing citizens.
“Corruption is the biggest enemy of Kenyans. A lot of money ends up in the pockets of individuals. Those found culpable must face the law,” he said.
He defended ODM’s cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying the engagement was aimed at national stability—not political betrayal.
“We didn’t enter this engagement to betray Kenyans. Kenya is bigger than any individual. ODM will be on the ballot in 2027, ready and organized.”
Joho on ODM elections
Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho echoed Mr Odinga’s call for peaceful grassroots elections.
“Let’s not harm each other. We’re all brothers in this party. I’m an integral part of ODM, and we must protect it,” said Mr Joho.
He also took a swipe at the media over what he termed as inaccurate reporting regarding a recent alleged attack on cruise ship tourists in Mombasa.
“Your misreporting is costing us. Tourists are now hesitant to dock in Mombasa. We work so hard to grow this sector. If something is true, report it, but don’t misrepresent facts in a way that hurts our economy,” CS Joho reiterated.
Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho
Suna East MP Junet Mohamed addressed the ongoing furore surrounding former Attorney General and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi’s recent remarks on President William Ruto.
Mr Mohamed called out on Mr Muturi to explain the inflated government project costs, calling for investigations.
“Let him present his documents to the DCI if he has any evidence instead of playing to the public. As he does so, he must also explain how the cost of Bunge Towers ballooned from Sh6 billion to Sh27 billion,” said Mr Mohamed.
He also defended ODM’s talks with President Ruto, saying the dialogue was about service delivery, not political betrayal.
“Our people need roads, water and other services. We cannot stay silent while others suffer. All Kenyans pay taxes and deserve to benefit from government,” Mr Mohamed stated.
Jomvu MP Badi Twalib noted that the working relationship between President Ruto and Mr Odinga was already bearing fruit and should be supported, not sabotaged.
Chief Kadhi Abdulhalim Hussein called on parents and religious leaders to guide and support the youth, particularly during and after Ramadan.
“Parents must steer our young people away from behaviours that could derail their future. The numbers around divorce are worrying. We must preserve the institution of marriage,” he said.
He also appealed for the revival of the Wakf Commission, which has not had commissioners since 2019, despite its importance to the Muslim community.
“We thank the Attorney-General for moving on this matter. It’s time to appoint commissioners so that the institution can serve the community fully,” he said.
bwachira@ke.nationmedia.com