Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwour aka Jalang’o fell out with his party leader Raila Odinga after betraying him by seeking dalliance with president William Ruto.
Jalang’o is among rebel ODM lawmakers who were recently expelled from the party for ‘seeking development’ from Ruto.
Even though he betrayed Raila, Jalang’o acknowledges that the ODM leader played a vital role in his political career including giving him campaign money.
Speaking during an interview with TV 47, the Lang’ata MP said that apart from campaigning for him Raila also gave him Ksh5 million to support his campaigns.
He further admitted that his campaigns would have been very difficult without the help of Raila.
“I know the big role that Baba played in me being a member of parliament. He supported me, he supported me not only by endorsing me but also financially. We are among the few people that Baba told to plan an event and he would grace it to support us in our election. He gave me personally Ksh5 million,” Jalang’o said.
Jalang’o said the campaign was tough. He said it was not easy to beat his successor Nickson Korir.
The MP said he still endeared to Raila adding that the Azimio Chief sees him as a son.
“Baba knows very well, wherever he is right now, he knows that I am his son and Baba loves me so much,” he claimed.
Raila Odinga, however, supports the expulsion of Jalang’o and other rebel ODM lawmakers.
Speaking during a meeting with Migori County ODM delegates September 8, 2023, Raila said the party can only be strong when its members are united and disciplined.
The ODM leader rebuked the rebel lawmakers for what he termed as betraying the party, further daring them to resign from their elective seats and seek fresh mandates from the people on new party tickets.
