Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has called on dissenting leaders within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party to openly explain their political positions, saying internal disagreements have existed for years but were previously subdued by the influence of Raila Odinga.

Speaking on February 17, 2026, during a press briefing while addressing the Luo Council of Elders, Mbadi said the elders’ primary concern is maintaining unity within both the Luo community and the party.

“I think the elders, first and foremost, are concerned about the unity of the Luo community, then the unity of ODM,” Mbadi stated. “The things that you are seeing happening today did not start yesterday, they started when Raila was alive, although they were muted.”

He noted that disagreements over cooperation with President William Ruto had previously been expressed by party officials, including ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna.

“This talk of not supporting President William Ruto by the SG of the party happened even when Raila was alive, only that it was muted,” Mbadi said, adding that some leaders were hesitant to speak openly at the time.

Mbadi also mentioned James Orengo and Babu Owino, saying they had previously indicated reluctance to work with the current administration.

“Because in Kenya there are just two political groupings,” Mbadi said. “If you don’t want to work with Ruto, who do you want to work with? You want to work with Wamunyoro (Rigathi Gachagua) and the rest?”

He urged those with opposing views to present their arguments to party leadership and elders. Mbadi further warned that divisive political statements risk escalating tensions, referencing a recent incident in Kitengela that reportedly involved the death of an individual.

“We are saying come and tell us, come and try to convince us,” Mbadi added.