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The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has called on the government to increase the monthly stipend allocated to elderly citizens from Ksh 2,000 to Ksh 6,000.
The proposal emerged as part of a broader set of resolutions adopted during a high-level party retreat held in Mombasa County.
In a statement on Monday, May 4, ODM said it retains the dream to create jobs for the youth, make the government take care of the poor, and all the other vulnerable people.
“We retain the dream to make government take care of the poor, the widows and vulnerable, and raise the upkeep for the elderly from the current Ksh 2,000 to Ksh 6,000 per month,” the statement read.
The party emphasized that its strategy is to transition from opposition politics to governance through democratic processes.
“ODM was not formed to seek to form government from the streets, but through democratic means. The time for this is now,” the statement declared.
Strategic Shift Toward 2027
The retreat brought together key party organs, including Members of Parliament, senators, governors, and the National Executive Committee, in what ODM described as a, “strategic and practical plan” to secure electoral victory.
Central to this plan is a shift toward influencing policy from within government structures.
“We have made the conscious decision that going forward, we will pursue change and reform from inside the government,” ODM stated.
“We seek to be at tables and meetings where decisions that hurt our people are being made,” the party added.
The party stressed its ideological roots anchored in the vision of its founding leader, Raila Odinga, noting that his aspirations for equitable development and inclusive governance remain central to ODM’s agenda.
“These dreams remain valid and remain ours,” the statement emphasized.
Organizational Reforms and Organizational Renewal
In addition to proposing policies, ODM presented extensive internal reforms designed to increase its organizational effectiveness before the next elections.
The organization instructed its secretariat to select candidates for the electoral posts, increase membership, and develop its grassroots network.
“The people remain at the center of our plans,” ODM noted.
The National Elections and Coordinating Committee has been tasked with developing, “enhanced and fail-proof mechanisms” to ensure credible party nominations.
Additionally, ODM plans to revamp its youth and women leagues to foster inclusivity and generational balance in leadership.
“We seek to ensure young people and women are organically developed into ODM leadership at all levels,” the statement said.
Also Read:Babu Owino Drops Bombshell, Says ODM Is “Dead” and Hints at New Party
Technology, Governance, and Accountability
ODM made a bold step by announcing that it would utilize artificial intelligence in its political undertakings.
The party also committed to addressing structural barriers such as high data costs, which it says limit access to digital government services.
“We mandate the party to engage relevant government agencies on the issue of data whose prices remain excessively high,” ODM stated.
The party further called for the timely disbursement of political party funds, arguing that adequate financing is essential for democratic integrity.
It also pledged to push for compensation of victims of police brutality, noting that such measures should be expedited and potentially expanded beyond current legal frameworks.
Also Read:Oburu Addresses Sifuna and Babu Owino as Talks of the Future of ODM
Grassroots Mobilization and National Vision
ODM placed a lot of emphasis on grassroots mobilization in that it encouraged its supporters to lead campaigns on voter education across the country.
The party also plans to activate chapters in universities and colleges to strengthen its appeal among young voters and align with progressive student movements.
Concluding the retreat, ODM reiterated its commitment to good governance, equitable resource distribution, and inclusive representation.
“We are a people-based political party and we shall not deviate from our role of ensuring good governance for the people of Kenya,” the statement said.
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Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga has revealed ODM’s preferred running mate for William Ruto in the 2027 elections, while ruling out Oburu Oginga as a potential choice.PHOTO/ ODM X.
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