ODM reveals strategy to keep party united amid claims of internal cracks

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has revealed the strategy it wants to employ in order to keep unity within its ranks amid claims of disunity.

The rumours of disunity in the Orange party come as others eye Raila Odinga’s position as the party leader. The claims have also emerged as the party is in the process of conducting its elections.

“On rebuilding, rejuvenation and reforms, the committee agreed on the need to continually grow ODM into a party that is strong both structurally as well as ideologically, with the ability to provide effective leadership on local, national and international affairs.

“In this regard, we agreed to continue with the ongoing membership registration while at the same time working to kick off the processes towards grassroots and national elections.

“With pride and satisfaction, the committee took note of the ongoing preparations by various leaders and members to vie for various positions. We have noted immense interest in the party.

“We therefore agreed not to allow election activities to be the source of divisions or cause cracks in ODM. The elections must be seen as a friendly match and not a do or die,” ODM noted in a statement released after the meeting of its Central Management Committee.

The party also said they are satisfied by the number of people looking to fill available positions of the party in the upcoming elections.

“We are particularly encouraged by the number of young men and women who have expressed interest in vying for leadership. It is the greatest assurance that the party has a future and is still seen as a viable tool for national leadership.

“We encouraged our members to pursue their ambitions with a sense of responsibility to strengthen not weaken our unity and solidarity and to focus all our attention and energy on that big and main task for any political party, which is to take power,” the statement added.

NADCO report

Recently, the implementation of the National Dialogue Commitee’s report, famously known as NADCO, faced challenges including a court injunction. ODM has raised its voice over this issue and pointed fingers at those they believe are behind the roadblocks erected.

“The meeting further noted with concern what appears to be coordinated attempts to derail the implementation of the NADCO report. It is becoming apparent that some if not all of these court cases are state-sponsored.

“If indeed elements in the regime are having a second thought regarding proposals they signed onto of their own volition, they should come out clearly to say so instead of sponsoring these cases,” the opposition outfit said.

Raila Odinga and his Azimio La Umoja-One Kenya Alliance have, at various points, aired their views on NADCO and its implementation.