Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga has launched a scathing attack on Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo, claiming that Odhiambo is not a member of the ODM party and should therefore refrain from commenting on its affairs.

According to Mr. Abala, the Orange party had extended its support to Odhiambo during the primaries, only for him to allegedly betray them when his support was most crucial as an elected lawmaker.

“The MP was favored and awarded the ticket during the party primaries. It’s common knowledge that the true winner of the ticket was Jalang’o Midiwo. Odhiambo then defected to our rivals when the party needed him the most. He is not a genuine member of the Orange party,” expressed the agitated Kisumu City Manager, who has also declared his intention to contest the Gem parliamentary seat in 2027.

Abala cautioned Odhiambo against organizing a separate delegates’ meeting, asserting that Odhiambo had already shifted his allegiance from ODM to Kenya Kwanza.

“Elisha is not a member of ODM. In fact, he has already aligned himself with Kenya Kwanza and should refrain from involving himself in Orange party affairs,” Abala added.

Responding to these allegations, Deputy Constituency Manager Ogam Maramba criticized Abala, stating that Odhiambo is the incumbent MP and a bona fide member of the ODM party.

“There has been no official declaration from the MP indicating his departure from the Orange party to any other political outfit,” Maramba clarified.

He also urged the city manager to stay out of party matters, noting that Odhiambo continues to contribute monthly dues to the party. “Odhiambo is still a party member and upholds his monthly contributions. Abala should respect his position and refrain from unnecessary interference,” Maramba concluded.

The rivalry between the two leaders became apparent during the December 2022 by-election in South Gem, where Abala supported his brother Polycarp Wanga on the ODM ticket, while Odhiambo backed Brian Anyango (Otuom Polo), who emerged victorious as an independent candidate.