ODM Unveils Nationwide Recruitment Drive and Youth Strategy Ahead of 2027 Elections
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has announced an ambitious mobilisation plan aimed at strengthening its electoral prospects ahead of the 2027 General Election, with a focus on nationwide candidate recruitment and expanding its youth base.
In resolutions adopted on Monday, May 4, the party directed its secretariat to roll out a coordinated scouting initiative across all regions to identify and recruit aspirants interested in vying for elective seats under the ODM ticket. The exercise is expected to streamline the party’s nomination process across all levels of leadership, from grassroots positions to national offices.
Speaking on the development, ODM acting Secretary-General Catherine Omanyo said the party is prioritising early identification of candidates to enhance preparedness and competitiveness.
“We task the secretariat to deploy and enable all regions to pick teams to scout and identify interested candidates willing to contest on the ODM ticket for all elective positions,” she stated.
Alongside the recruitment drive, ODM revealed plans to deepen its engagement with young voters by activating party chapters in institutions of higher learning across the country. The initiative will also involve forging partnerships with what the party described as “progressive youth organisations” engaged in civic and sectoral activities.
“We task the party to activate ODM chapters in all colleges and universities across the country and ensure close links with other progressive youth organisations… working together with them for a better life for all students,” Omanyo added.
The party’s leadership believes the strategy will not only broaden its appeal among younger demographics but also strengthen its grassroots structures within key voting blocs.
Funding Dispute and Welfare Agenda
ODM also used the platform to press the government over delayed disbursement of political parties’ funds, arguing that the lack of timely financing undermines democratic participation and hampers party operations.
Party officials claimed that the government owes ODM approximately Ksh 12 billion in unpaid funding, insisting that the matter must be resolved before any potential engagement with the Kenya Kwanza administration ahead of future political negotiations.
Beyond electoral preparations, the party reaffirmed its commitment to social welfare policies, calling for increased government support for vulnerable groups. Among the proposals is a significant boost to the monthly stipend under the Inua Jamii Programme, from Ksh 2,000 to Ksh 6,000.
“We remain committed to advancing opportunities for the youth and making government take care of the poor, widows, and other vulnerable groups,” Omanyo said, adding that enhanced support for single mothers should also be prioritised.
The resolutions come approximately 14 months before the next general election cycle intensifies, with ODM reiterating its intention to play a central role in the formation of the next government.
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