Dagoreti North Member of Parliament Beatrice Elachi has called on Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders to exercise restraint and respect party structures, warning that public power struggles risk weakening the party.
Speaking during a party consultative forum in her constituency, Elachi emphasized that effective political movements are anchored on discipline and clear leadership, stating that there can only be one leader at a time.
“ODM has survived difficult moments because it understands order and respect for leadership,” Elachi said.“You cannot have many leaders speaking in different directions and expect the party to remain strong.”The MP urged ODM leaders to rally behind Party Leader Oburu Odinga, noting that leadership authority must be upheld if the party is to maintain unity and credibility among its supporters.
She cautioned against resolving internal disagreements through the media or public rallies, saying such approaches only serve to confuse supporters and expose the party to unnecessary internal conflict.
“Debate is healthy, and differing opinions are part of democracy,” she said. “But there is a clear difference between constructive internal dialogue and public defiance of party leadership.”
Elachi called on party officials to use established ODM organs to address disputes and policy differences, arguing that unity does not mean silence but respect for agreed structures and collective decisions.
Her remarks come amid growing public exchanges among some ODM leaders, a trend that has sparked concern within the party’s grassroots about cohesion and direction.
Elachi concluded by reminding leaders that ODM’s strength lies in its ability to speak with one voice, especially at critical political moments.
“When we compete for attention instead of working together, the party loses focus,” she said. “Unity begins with respect for the leader we have chosen.”The MP’s remarks were met with nods of approval from party supporters in attendance, signaling growing calls within ODM for internal order and renewed discipline.