Political commentator Pauline Njoroge has spoken out to clear the air over claims linking former President Uhuru Kenyatta to the rising internal tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party.
She strongly rejected the narrative that Uhuru is influencing or fueling divisions in the party, saying such claims are misplaced and unfair.
In a statement issued on Monday, December 29, Njoroge said the attacks on Uhuru Kenyatta are mainly driven by unease among some leaders who are uncomfortable with his continued popularity across the country.
She pointed out that the former president’s warm reception in traditionally ODM-supporting regions, especially during the funeral of Raila Odinga, has unsettled some individuals within the political space.
“It’s obvious that Uhuru Kenyatta’s popularity even in ODM zones and the reception he got during Baba’s funeral is really bothering some people. Instead of dealing with their own internal disagreements, they have decided to make him the scapegoat,” she said.
According to Njoroge, the challenges facing ODM are internal and have nothing to do with external actors.
She explained that the party is divided along clear lines, mainly over how it should relate with the current government.
On one side are leaders who are comfortable working within the broad-based government arrangement and benefiting from it, while on the other side are those, especially younger leaders, who are opposed to cooperation with the government and want the party to take a different political direction.
“The truth is ODM is divided from within. Some leaders are comfortable enjoying the benefits of the broad-based government and selling the party to that front, while others especially the younger generation are clearly not pro-government and want to take a different path. That disconnect is the real problem, not outsiders,” she added.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta during the past Jubilee party NDC. Photo Courtesy
Njoroge further argued that Uhuru Kenyatta has no political incentive to interfere with ODM affairs. She emphasized that the former president is not seeking any elective position in the 2027 general election and should not be portrayed as a destabilising figure.
“When people refuse to face the hard reality, they look for a bogeyman to blame. Uhuru Kenyatta is not a candidate in 2027 and has nothing to gain from dividing ODM. What he is, is a widely respected and much loved statesman. Let people stop the propaganda and unbearable intrigue,” she concluded.
Her remarks come shortly after she revealed her own political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections. About a week earlier, Njoroge announced that she plans to contest for an elective county position in Nairobi, though she said she will reveal the specific seat at a later date.
In an interview on Tuesday, December 23, she said her decision is driven by concern over what she described as poor leadership and the lack of a clear, people-centered development plan for the capital city.
“I’m going to vie in Nairobi for a county post. I’ll communicate that in due time. Nairobi needs a new plan because the plan that currently exists or whatever those in power imagine is the plan is not working for the people,” she said.
Njoroge added that her motivation is rooted in service and a desire to be part of a leadership team that delivers real change. She stressed the need for practical solutions that focus on improving service delivery and the daily lives of Nairobi residents.
“We need a new plan for Nairobi, people-focused and service delivery-focused. And I want to be part of a team that actually delivers that plan, that new plan for Nairobi,” she added.
