Rédaction Africa Links 24 with LABAN WANAMBISI
Published on 2024-04-01 06:24:19
Raila Odinga, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, issued a warning about the potential disintegration of the party due to internal factional battles related to succession politics. Addressing a public gathering in Malindi, Raila expressed his concerns about the formation of factions within the party and cautioned that individual ambitions could jeopardize the unity of the party.
Former Governors Ali Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, who serve as the Deputy Party Leaders of ODM, are reportedly working to install their allies in leadership positions within the party during the upcoming grassroots elections. These moves are seen as part of their efforts to position themselves for leadership roles within the political outfit.
The succession struggles within the ODM have also been connected to the potential postponement of the grassroots elections, as Raila Odinga has shown interest in pursuing the African Union Commission Chairperson position. This has created a tense atmosphere within the party, with various individuals eyeing Odinga’s position and threatening to disrupt the party’s unity.
In response to these challenges, Raila is set to chair the ODM Party Central Committee meeting on April 2, 2024. The Chairman of ODM, John Mbadi, has hinted at the possibility of postponing the grassroots elections due to the lack of a functioning Elections Coordinating Committee. Similar challenges have arisen in the past, such as the disruption of the grassroots elections in 2014 following the National Delegates Conference.
The intense competition for leadership positions within ODM has raised concerns about the party’s stability, with factions and internal conflicts affecting the party’s unity. The party leadership has urged caution and moderation among members to preserve the party’s strength and cohesion.
Efforts to devolve the management of elections to the grassroots level have been made, with the disbanding of the ODM National Elections Board and the establishment of county-level election coordinators. Raila has been leading a mass recruitment drive to bolster the party’s membership ahead of the anticipated national elections in April.
ODM is focused on strengthening its base and expanding its reach across the country as it prepares for the 2027 General Elections. The recruitment drive aims to engage Kenyans from all regions and demographics to build a strong and united party.
In conclusion, Raila Odinga’s warning about the potential disintegration of the ODM party highlights the challenges posed by internal factional battles and succession politics. The party leadership is working to address these issues and strengthen the party’s unity as they prepare for upcoming elections. By promoting moderation and inclusivity, ODM aims to overcome internal conflicts and maintain its position as a prominent political force in Kenya.
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