Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo has dismissed criticism over her opposition to political zoning in ODM strongholds, saying she will not be silenced by online attacks as debate intensifies within the party over electoral strategy.
Her comments follow backlash after she declared that political zoning should not be applied in ODM areas, a position that has triggered sharp exchanges among party supporters and online commentators.
Odhiambo said she has been subjected to personal attacks, particularly claims linking her stance to jealousy over Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, a narrative she strongly rejected.
“I find it utterly amusing that when I express a view different from some people in my party, they send bloggers with a standard ‘you are jealous of Gladys Wanga’ comment,” she said. “Other than the statement depicting intellectual deficiency, I wonder what you hope to achieve with it.”
She added that attempts to personalise political disagreement were misplaced and would not change her position on the issue.
“If I am jealous of Wanga, and yet I am superb as a leader, that is good. It means as a woman leader she is doing exceedingly well. That is a plus for us women,” she said.
Odhiambo reaffirmed her opposition to zoning, insisting that political competition should remain open, especially under the current broad-based arrangement involving ODM and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
“I do not support zoning. let democracy prevail. we are in a broadbased coalition with uda. let them field candidates anywhere. let what we have done under our respective mandates be our defender,” she stated.
The MP also said she had been informed of online attacks allegedly directed by supporters linked to Governor Wanga, but maintained she was unbothered by the criticism.
“I have heard from Nyar General that some bloggers aligned to Gavana Gladys Wanga are abusing me out there. Bado niko busy please. Endeleeni. Online bullying does not work on me. Try someone else,” she said.