ODM reaffirms party’s identity amid broader political landscape

By Robert Mutasi 

The ODM top leaders have expressed commitment to the party retaining its unique identity and vision, even as a section of its membership is currently involved in the recently constituted broad-based government. 

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, October 10, 2024, party leaders said they looked forward with optimism to the future of the ODM, vowing to uphold its principles of social justice, democracy, and strong organization.

Siaya Senator James Orengo, an ODM stalwart, told the gathering that the party was still bent on its founding ideals, assuring it would always be at the forefront of the country's and region's leadership.

"We are going to keep our identity, we are going to keep our vision, and we are going to remain the best-organized party not only in the Republic of Kenya but in the region," said Orengo.

He went ahead to express his optimism for ODM's future, citing its members' discipline and commitment. 

"The sky is not the limit; the sky is just a target, but we aim beyond the sky, and with that, we are going to succeed."

Edwin Sifuna, the ODM Secretary-General, echoed the sentiments of Orengo, congratulating party leader Raila Odinga for ensuring ODM continues to stand tall.

He pointed out that the party remains in its cause regardless of the changing political dynamics.

"This party will retain its identity even in the face of recent development and after the formation of the broad-based government. The young people in this party know who they are, they know themselves and they know their party," Sifuna said.

He hailed Odinga's leadership for keeping the flag of ODM high.

Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi emphasized that ODM is pinned on its ideals, and it would continue to champion social justice and democracy. 

"We are a party with an identity, and our identity is to promote social justice and democracy in this country. We are not going to cease; we will continue doing that even though some of our members are in the broad-based government," Osotsi said.

John Ketora, the President of the ODM Youth League, who is set to replace John Mbadi in Parliament, maintained that the party was working on its strategies to expand its reach across the country.

" We are going to retain our identity, and the identity of our mother party, which is ODM. Branding is going to another level. We are going to be felt all over the country," averred Ketora, adding a nationwide activation of party programs to recruit new members and energize the ODM base is underway.