By Allan Kisia
The Orange Democratic Movement ( ODM) has inaugurated a new elections board as it prepares for party polls ahead of the General Election.
Henry Kathurima is the new chairman of the party National Elections Board, replacing Philip Okundi, who resigned to vie for Homa Bay County governor seat.
Col-Rtd Kathurima was inaugurated alongside eight commissioners who will represent various parts of the country.
“I am happy to note that the board comprises of people from across the country. The board is the face of Kenya and is made up of people from the public sector, corporate world and academia,” said Kathurima.
Also present at the function was Eliud Owalo, who was recently appointed ODM head of presidential secretariat and chief campaign manager.
Kathurima promised to oversee a free, fair and peaceful nomination process.
Other members of the board are James Ogundo, Joseph Misoi, Judy Pareno, Chacha Nyaigoti Chacha, Beatrice Sabana, Hellen Nayuko Katangie, and Ibrahim Mohammed.
The elections board has repeatedly been accused of giving nomination certificates to candidates who are not strong on the ground.
Optimism
on Wednesday, Owalo expressed optimism that the new board would be independent and free from interference by party leaders.
In an interview with The Standard after the function, Owalo stated that the new team had diverse background to restore confidence among ODM members and supporters.
