ODM Reschedules Grassroots Election Amid Funding Delays, Succession Concerns » Capital News
NAIROBI, Kenya Apr 3 -The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has rescheduled its grassroots election to 27th April, attributing the delay to the government’s tardiness in disbursing political parties’ funds.
The decision was announced by the Opposition’s top decision-making body Wednesday amid concerns about potential disunity within the party amidst ongoing succession discussions to replace party leader Raila Odinga.
Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson seat has gained significant traction across the continent, adding to the political landscape’s complexity. ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna outlined plans to adopt either a consensus, manual, or digital voting system, depending on the region’s specifics.
“The electoral committee will collaborate with our regional members to determine the most suitable voting method for each area,” stated Sifuna.
The Raila Odinga-led party has pledged to reinstate the National Election Board, disbanded in January, before the April 27th polls. The Central Committee had initially proposed devolving election management to the grassroots level, appointing male and female elections coordinators for each county.
Further adjustments to election management within the party are expected to be discussed during upcoming meetings of the National Executive Council (NEC) and National Governing Council.
The grassroots election will kick off on April 27th in Kwale, Busia, and Siaya Counties, followed by Kajiado, Migori, and Wajir Counties on April 29th. Subsequent rounds in Kisii, Vihiga, and Muranga counties are scheduled for April 30th, with details on additional counties to be released soon.
This election marks the party’s first grassroots election in several years, following the disruption of its previous attempt in February 2014. The delay in political parties’ fund disbursement has been a major challenge, hindering party operations and sparking allegations of deliberate attempts to stifle political diversity in the country.
“We demand the immediate release of funds to ensure the smooth planning and execution of key party activities, including the scheduled elections,” emphasized Sifuna.
About The Author
