The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has been temporarily barred from expelling Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda and MPs Elisha Odhiambo (Gem) and Felix ‘Jalang’o’ Odiwuor (Lang’ata).
The orders issued by the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal on Tuesday are pending the hearing of a case filed on Monday challenging the trio’s expulsion on the basis of alleged violations of the party’s constitution.
“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,” read court papers.
The matter has been set for mention on September 25.
Last Wednesday, Ojienda, Odhiambo, and Jalang’o were shown the door, along with Caroli Omondi (Suba South) and Gideon Ochanda (Bondo).
They were accused of violating the ODM constitution and the Political Parties Act 2011 by openly associating with and supporting the activities of a rival political outfit, as well as opposing lawful decisions made by party organs.
During a meeting with Migori County ODM delegates on Friday, Raila Odinga defended the expulsion, saying the party can only be strong if its members are united and disciplined.
The Azimio leader chastised the five for “betraying the party,” and challenged them to resign from their elected positions and seek new mandates from the people on new party tickets.
