ODM Hits Out at Standard Media Over ‘Raila’s Turf Rebels’ Headline
On Saturday, July 5, ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga released a strongly worded statement condemning the newspaper’s article titled ‘Raila’s Turf Rebels’. She described it as “misleading, sensational, and deeply disrespectful.”
“Our attention has been drawn to the continued misrepresentation of facts and disinformation by the Standard Newspaper,” Wanga stated.
“It is aimed at promoting the narrative that the ODM Party leader, the Rt. Hon Raila Odinga, is losing popularity in his backyard of Nyanza.”
The controversial article suggested a political shift in Nyanza, particularly during the burial of teacher Albert Ojwang in Homa Bay. The report described the event as filled with political rebellion and unrest.
The publication read:
“In Homa Bay, the winds have changed. What was once firm Raila Odinga soil now feels restless – cracked by grief, scorched by betrayal, and stirred by a generation no longer content with silence.”
“At the burial of Albert Ojwang, mourners did not just weep – they rose. They jeered the loyal and cheered the rebel. Babu Owino becomes a symbol: Raila’s lieutenants become targets.”
Wanga rejected this portrayal, insisting the funeral was not a political battleground but a national event that brought Kenyans together in mourning.
“This portrayal of the late Albert Ojwang’s funeral as a contestation for popularity is unnatural, detestable, and a disservice to the truth, the very maxim upon which the media operates,” she said.
“The burial was conducted peacefully and respectfully. No chaos. No rebellion,” Wanga added.
“We want to make it clear that the Rt. Hon Raila Odinga is a distinguished Statesman. His contribution to the history of this Nation is undeniable and significant,” she affirmed.
“His consistent fight for justice, and sacrifices to lead, reconcile, and bridge divides in our society like no one else are undeniable.”
She concluded by defending ODM’s strength, unity, and relevance in national politics.
“ODM is strong and solid, and our recent national grassroots elections reaffirmed our standing as the strongest party in the nation.”
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ODM Hits Out at Standard Media Over ‘Raila’s Turf Rebels’ Headline
