Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has dismissed claims that he is seeking to divide the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying he respects the party and its members and has no intention of interfering in its internal affairs.
Speaking during the burial of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo, Kenyatta said he would not take attacks against him lightly. His remarks came amid growing tensions within ODM, with party Secretary General Edwin Sifuna later defending the former president and issuing an apology on behalf of the party.
A week earlier, National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed had accused Kenyatta of destabilising ODM. The claims have emerged as unity talks among Western region leaders and differing positions on President William Ruto’s re-election continue to expose sharp divisions within the opposition.
A visibly agitated Kenyatta went on the offensive against his critics, vowing to confront them head-on.
“You very well know I am retired, but being retired does not mean you can poke me in the eye and expect no retaliation. I will also poke you back. We have no fear, but we must respect each other,” he said.
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