Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, aligned with the Linda Mwananchi faction opposed to the mainstream Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership, has called for a more decisive and cohesive national strategy to challenge what he described as “the yoke of dictatorship” in Kenya.
His remarks on social platform X come amid ongoing tensions within ODM that have seen parallel National Delegates Conference (NDC) activities deepen faultlines within the party.
In a statement, Amisi urged opposition leaders and supporters to avoid internal divisions, ethnic mobilisation and inconsistent conduct that he says weaken efforts to confront President William Ruto’s administration.
“Salvaging a country from the yoke of dictatorship is not child’s play,” Amisi stated, warning against tribal groupings and duplicity that he says confuses the public and emboldens the ruling government.
Amisi’s comments reflect frustrations within the Linda Mwananchi faction, which held a parallel meeting on the same day as ODM’s official NDC at Jamhuri Showground in Nairobi on March 27, 2026.
Security agencies blocked access to the faction’s planned venue at Ufangamano House, leading to heightened tensions between supporters of the rival gatherings.
The mainstream wing led by party officials including Oburu Oginga proceeded with the scheduled NDC after the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal allowed it to go ahead.
The Saboti MP criticised what he called “many parallel ODM events,” arguing they inadvertently benefit the government by projecting disunity.
“He [Ruto] is happy and smiling at your political stupidity,” Amisi wrote, stressing that ethnic mobilisation, in particular, cannot dismantle entrenched power structures.
Amisi challenged ODM loyalists to rethink their strategy and consider alternative political pathways if the party leadership cannot accommodate broader opposition aspirations.
“If ODM does not want us, it is high time we make the unfortunate decision and move forward,” he said, describing it as “the only feasible and easiest way out.”
He drew on historical references to veteran leader Raila Odinga, arguing that Odinga’s successes stemmed from his willingness to leave parties or causes that no longer aligned with his vision, and to take meaningful political risks.
“We cannot sing Raila morning to evening and be afraid to practise and take risks he took to achieve his goals,” Amisi wrote.
Concluding his statement with a metaphor, the Saboti MP said the old political vehicle has stalled: “Chama ilienda kitambo.
The train must now leave the station,” signalling his faction’s readiness to pursue an independent path forward.