The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Kenya’s leading opposition party, has unveiled significant changes to its leadership structure following the appointment of several key members to President William Ruto’s cabinet.
In a statement released on July 31, 2024, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna detailed the party’s response to these developments and outlined plans for filling the resulting vacancies.
The Central Management Committee, chaired by party leader Raila Odinga, confirmed the resignations of several high-ranking officials. These include John Mbadi, who stepped down as National Chairperson, Opiyo Wandayi as Secretary for Political Affairs, and deputy party leaders Wycliffe Oparanya and Hassan Joho.
Despite these changes, Sifuna emphasized that ODM’s political stance remains unchanged. “We reiterate that there is no agreement of any nature between ODM and Kenya Kwanza,” he stated, affirming the party’s continued role in the opposition and its commitment to the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition.
To address the leadership vacancies, the party plans to conduct “wide consultations amongst its membership,” according to Sifuna.
Proposals for new parliamentary leadership roles include Junet Mohamed as Minority Leader, Millie Odhiambo as Minority Whip, and Caleb Amisi as Chair of the Public Accounts Committee.
The statement also addressed broader national issues, with ODM expressing support for a “national conversation” to address the recent crisis in Kenya. Sifuna noted, “ODM fully supports the issues raised by Kenyans and particularly Gen Z,” highlighting concerns such as equity, unemployment, and corruption.
