Veteran journalist and political analyst David Makali has sharply criticised allegations that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) National Delegates Convention (NDC) held at Jamhuri Grounds was funded by the government, terming it a betrayal of the party’s founding principles.
Speaking amid growing controversy over the financing of the high-profile event, Makali accused sections of ODM leadership of abandoning the ideals associated with late party leader Raila Odinga, popularly known as “Baba.”
He linked the alleged funding to broader governance concerns, including unresolved grievances over recent protests and claims of misuse of public resources.
“It is a heartless betrayal of the ideals of Baba and ODM that the Linda Ground NDC was funded by the government,” Makali said.
He further claimed that accepting such support would contradict the party’s long-standing opposition stance, particularly against a regime it has previously accused of human rights violations.
Makali’s remarks referenced recent public anger over the deaths of Gen Z protesters, arguing that any perceived collaboration with the state undermines calls for accountability.
He also cited delays in compensating affected families, framing the alleged funding as politically and morally inconsistent.
The analyst went further to accuse unnamed leaders of prioritising political power over principle.
“This raw greed for power must be buried in 2027,” he said, urging voters to reject what he described as “conspirators and traitors” in the next general election.
The comments add to an already heated debate surrounding the ODM convention, which has drawn scrutiny over its scale and cost.
Critics have questioned how the party managed to finance a large-scale gathering despite earlier claims of financial constraints.
However, ODM officials including the party's Communications Director Philip Etale have dismissed the allegations of government involvement, maintaining that the event was funded through legitimate party mechanisms, including member contributions and public funding allocated to political parties.
Party leaders have described the claims as politically motivated attempts to discredit the organisation.
The dispute comes at a sensitive political moment, as speculation grows over shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 elections