The widening rift within the Orange Democratic Movement has deepened as Saboti MP Caleb Amisi draws a line in the sand, declaring he will abandon the party if it consummates its marriage of convenience with the UDA government.

In a bold declaration that exposes the ideological fractures within Kenya’s opposition, Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi has ruled out defending his seat on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket if the party formalizes its working relationship with President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA). The lawmaker’s ultimatum comes amidst growing speculation that ODM is inching closer to a coalition government, a move Amisi argues would be a betrayal of the party's foundational principles.

A Betrayal of Values

Speaking to his constituents in Trans Nzoia, Amisi painted a grim picture of a party losing its soul. He argued that the "broad-based" government arrangement currently being touted by party insiders is nothing more than a euphemism for co-optation. "I was elected to check the government, not to dine with it," Amisi asserted. "If ODM becomes an appendage of UDA, it ceases to be the movement of liberation that we fought for."

The MP’s stance resonates with a significant section of ODM’s youthful support base, particularly in Western Kenya and Nairobi, who feel alienated by the party's warming ties with the state. Amisi warned that the party risks suffering the same fate as KANU in 2002—absolute rejection by the electorate for failing to read the public mood.

The "Disco Matanga" Crisis

Amisi did not hold back in his diagnosis of the party's internal health, describing the current state of affairs as "Disco Matanga"—a chaotic dance before a funeral. He pointed to the confusion plaguing the National Executive Council (NEC), where officials are split between those hungry for state jobs and those determined to remain in opposition.

• The Ruto Trap: Amisi cautioned that President Ruto is a master tactician who is using the handshake deal to neuter the opposition effectively. By absorbing ODM into his administration, Ruto eliminates his most potent threat ahead of 2027.
• Grassroots Revolt: The MP claimed that ODM grassroots supporters are feeling abandoned. "The people on the ground are angry. They see their leaders driving government cars while the cost of living remains unbearable," he noted.

The Threat of Mass Exodus

Amisi is not alone in his defiance. He hinted at a coordinated walkout of like-minded legislators who are prepared to form a new political vehicle or join alternative progressive forces if ODM does not reverse course. This potential splinter group could severely undermine ODM’s bargaining power and regional dominance.

"I am a student of Raila Odinga, but I will not follow the party blindly into a political grave," Amisi concluded. His ultimatum places immense pressure on the current party leadership to clarify its position: remain a watchdog for the people or become a junior partner in the ruling regime. For Caleb Amisi, the choice is already made.