Tenth anniversary celebration of ODM was encouraging

The latest developments in ODM are encouraging to all who want the country’s democracy to strengthen and political parties to grow.

The celebration of their tenth anniversary was encouraging since our country has the reputation of littering the political scene with parties that die soon after elections.

Efforts by party hierarchy to expound on the ideals the ODM stands for are also encouraging. During their rally in Mombasa, party leader Raila Odinga delivered an inspiring speech reminding members and supporters about the mission of the Orange party.

Deputy party leader Hassan Joho also penned an opinion in the local dailies and articulated the ideals of the party.

Whereas the Orange party brags about its role in giving Kenyans a new Constitution, other parties need to openly assert their identities and beliefs. It is time parties gravitate on clearly known ideals that the electorate can identify with. We should divorce tribe and personalities in party identity. Parties must enroll members in all parts of the country.

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Succession politics is also a factor parties need to carefully consider. Veterans need to nurture young members to rise through the ranks.