NAIROBI – The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Nairobi Branch has declared its support for President William Ruto’s administration, distancing itself from the July 7 anti-government protests that left dozens dead and hundreds injured.
Speaking after chairing a branch meeting on Wednesday, Nairobi ODM Chairman and Makadara MP George Aladwa described the protests as politically driven and said they were exploited by criminals. “We must hold accountable not only the security forces who may have used excessive force, but also the criminals who took advantage of the unrest to loot, rape, and destroy property,” Aladwa said in a statement.
The July 7 demonstrations popularly dubbed the Saba Saba march, turned violent in Nairobi and major cities within the country with official figures confirming 61 deaths and widespread destruction of property.
Makadara MP George Aladwa dismissed claims that the protests were a genuine commemoration of Saba Saba, calling the unrest “an act of political mischief.”
“It is our firm belief that the July 7 events were not about Saba Saba, but a deliberate attempt by a section of politicians to hijack the occasion in pursuit of narrow political interests,” he said.
The Nairobi ODM branch also reaffirmed its stance against any attempt to remove a sitting government through unconstitutional means.
“ODM will never be party to unconstitutional efforts to change government, nor will we associate with individuals harboring such intentions,” the resolution read.
In a pointed message to opposition voices calling for President Ruto’s resignation, the branch called for political patience and urged the public to prepare for the 2027 elections.
“To those dissatisfied with the Ruto administration, the only path forward is through the ballot. There will be no shortcuts to power,” the statement added.
The branch also called on the newly formed Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to begin early preparations to ensure a free and credible 2027 general election.
The announcement signals a rift within the wider opposition movement, with ODM Nairobi signaling a more conciliatory approach compared to other Azimio-aligned factions still critical of the Ruto-led government.
Raila Odinga, ODM’s party leader, has yet to issue a direct response to the Nairobi branch’s statement.
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