Young professionals call on ODM old guards to relinguish mantle

By Allan Kisia

Nairobi, Kenya: As the fight for the control of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) intensifies, members are now urging the top leadership to ensure the most qualified candidate gets the post of Executive Director.

Daggers are drawn at the helm of the party with some officials claiming that some candidates do not have the interests of the party at heart but are only interested with the money ODM will get from the Government.

Under the Political Party’s Act, ODM is to get close to Sh700 million from Government due to the seats it garnered in the March 4, elections.

Over 40 candidates have been shortlisted for the party’s Executive Director position, in an exercise that was conducted by consulting firm, KPMG.

National Youth Coordinator Ben Ombima says the party should appoint a person who has contributed to the growth and development of the party.

“All those who have applied should be asked to state their contributions and vision for the party. There are those who applied just for the money,” he stated.

Among those said to have sought the post are former ODM deputy Chief Whip Magerer Langat, ex-National Social Security Fund boss Naftali Mogere, politicians Ken Butiko, John Kiema, Nabii Nabwera, Beth Syengo, Ceasar Asiyo and Monica Amolo.

A panel of MPs led by Butere’s Andrew Toboso is to interview the shortlisted candidates. The manner in which a new ODM Executive Director will be appointed will determine whether the party will regain its status as the strongest political party in the country.

The National Vice-Chair of Women League, Minishi Zamzam, said the party needs youthful leaders who have the interests of ODM at heart.