The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal has issued temporary orders preventing the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) from expelling Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda and Members of Parliament Elisha Odhiambo (Gem) and Felix ‘Jalang’o’ Odiwuor (Lang’ata) from the party.
These orders, issued on Tuesday, are in effect while a case filed on Monday challenging their expulsion over alleged violations of the party’s constitution is pending.
The court documents state, “In the interim and pending the hearing and determination of this Application, this Honourable Tribunal hereby issues interim conservatory orders staying the implementation and/or execution of the decision of the 1st Respondent to expel the Complainant/Applicant, Hon. Phelix Odiwuor Kodhe, from the Orange Democratic Movement Party.”
The case is scheduled for mention on September 25, allowing for a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the expulsions.
Last Wednesday, Ojienda, Odhiambo, Jalang’o, and two other MPs, Caroli Omondi (Suba South) and Gideon Ochanda (Bondo), faced expulsion from ODM.
The allegations against them included violating ODM’s constitution and the Political Parties Act 2011 by openly associating with and supporting activities of a rival political outfit, as well as opposing lawful decisions made by party organs.
ODM leader Raila Odinga defended the expulsions during a meeting with Migori County ODM delegates on Friday.
He emphasized the importance of unity and discipline within the party and accused the five members of betraying ODM.
Raila Odinga even challenged them to resign from their elective positions and seek fresh mandates from the people on new party tickets, further intensifying the political controversy.
