Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party on Thursday announced the suspension of four Kisumu Members of County Assembly over gross misconduct.
In a statement to Kisumu County Assembly Speaker, Elisha Jack, the party communicated its decision to suspend the four namely; Carolyne Opar (nominated), Kennedy Ajwang (nominated), Peter Obaso (nominated) and Regina Kizito (nominated).
Initially, the four had been expelled but the party revised its decision. The four are now suspended and have been banned from participating in any county assembly activities.
“As per the letter, I hereby inform you that the mentioned members are suspended from all functions of the assembly with immediate effect,“ read part of the statement.
“I kindly request the Clerk of the County Assembly to take note of this communication and ensure that the necessary administrative actions are taken to enforce the suspension of the aforementioned members.
“I urge all members to adhere to this decision and maintain the integrity and smooth functioning of our assembly during this period. Further instructions and updates will be communicated as necessary.”
The decision to suspend the 4 MCAs came one day after ODM suspended five legislators for openly defying the party and pledging allegiance to President William Ruto.
The lawmakers included; Phelix 'Jalang'o' Odiwuor (Lang'ata), Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Gideon Ochanda (Bondo), Caroli Omondi (Suba South) and Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda.
“Members facing allegations of violation of Article 11(1)(e) of the party constitution and Section 14A of the Political Parties Act 2011 by openly associating with and supporting activities of a rival political party and opposing lawful decisions/resolutions made by the party organs shall be deemed to have resigned from the party,” the party noted.
Following the announcement, Jalang'o responded to his ouster, maintaining that he was still a member of the ODM Party.
Speaking in an interview, the lawmaker noted that he was yet to receive the official communication from the party leader in regards to the decision.
"Let me tell you this, I will be the Lang'ata MP until 2027. Take this to the bank. There are no changes that will be done."
"What normally happens is that when a party expels you, they write to the Speaker who declares the seat vacant and thus people go back to the ballot. This happens if you will not appeal."
"ODM knows that there's no case. The likes of (Wiper) Kalonzo Musyoka were at State House, others were also given fines but we were expelled, why is that?" he noted.
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