Mumias East MP claims ODM leadership is secretly aligned with President Ruto, justifying his absence from the Linda Wananchi event in Busia.

In a characteristic display of political theatrics, Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has brushed off criticism over his absence from the ODM "Linda Wananchi" rally in Busia, declaring himself a "sharp boy" who sees through political charades. The youthful lawmaker took to TikTok to address his supporters, dismissing the event led by ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna as a performative exercise orchestrated by leaders who are, in his view, already in bed with the government.

"I See What Others Don't"

Salasya’s self-proclaimed title of "sharp boy" is a nod to the street-smart persona he has cultivated—one who refuses to be herded into political formations that don’t align with his instincts. "I represent a new political face in Kenya," he stated, arguing that he does not subscribe to the traditional "one-term or two-term" narratives but speaks the truth. His refusal to attend the Busia rally, which featured heavyweights like Siaya Governor James Orengo and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, has exposed widening cracks within the Orange party.

• The Ruto Connection: The core of Salasya’s rebellion is his allegation that the current ODM leadership is working for President William Ruto. He claims that both the Sifuna-led faction and the wing associated with Oburu Odinga are serving the same master, making their opposition rallies nothing more than a smokescreen.
• Power Play: The MP argued that recent changes in the party structure have concentrated power at the top, allowing leaders to purge dissenters. By skipping the rally, Salasya is effectively signaling that he will not be a pawn in what he perceives as a compromised opposition.

A Lone Ranger?

Salasya’s comments have set him on a collision course with the party hierarchy. While the term "sharp boy" is often associated with flashy, questionable wealth online, Salasya has reappropriated it to mean political astuteness. Whether this bold stance will isolate him or endear him to a disillusioned electorate remains to be seen.

For now, the MP is content to chart his own path, leaving the "Linda Wananchi" brigade to march without him. In the volatile world of Kenyan politics, Salasya is betting that being a "sharp boy" is better than being a loyal foot soldier in a lost cause.