The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has strongly rejected as “false and baseless” claims by a local daily newspaper alleging that the party ferried 6,000 delegates to Nairobi for its National Delegates Conference on March 27, 2026, at a cost of Sh100 million.
In a statement issued on Sunday by National Assembly Minority Leader and ODM party Director of Campaigns, Junet Mohamed, the party said the reports were “a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and diminish the credibility of our party.”
ODM clarified that its Constitution clearly stipulates the composition of the National Delegates Conference, requiring 3,000 accredited delegates, and any figure above this is illegal.
“It therefore begs the question: where did the figure of 6,000 delegates come from? Such exaggerations are not only inaccurate but point to a reckless disregard for facts by a media house increasingly gaining a reputation for publishing propaganda,” the statement read.
The party stressed that all internal processes, including delegates’ conferences, are conducted within the framework of the party constitution and funded legitimately through party mechanisms, including member contributions and allocations from the Political Parties Fund, as provided by law.
ODM accused the newspaper of reducing a significant national political event into a narrative of “regional mobilization and financial impropriety,” describing it as “irresponsible” and indicative of an agenda to mischaracterize the party’s strength and identity.
The statement further noted that the National Delegates Conference had achieved substantial outcomes, including the historic unanimous ratification of Oburu Oginga as Party Leader following the passing of the founding leader, Raila Odinga.
The conference also mandated the Party Leader to initiate coalition-building in preparation for the 2027 General Election.
“Coalition building is neither new nor unusual in Kenyan politics,” ODM said, emphasizing that the party has consistently demonstrated political maturity and pragmatism in forging alliances to advance national stability and progress.
The party also addressed its relationship with President William Ruto, stating that any engagement should be seen in the context of advancing national interests.
“Let it be clear: ODM is an equal stakeholder in any political arrangement. We are not subordinate to any individual or formation. We bring to the table a formidable national constituency, deep institutional structures, and a clear ideological orientation grounded in social justice and economic transformation,” the statement read.
The party concluded by calling on the media to uphold responsible journalism and verify facts before publication, asserting that ODM remains steadfast, united, and focused on its mission to champion the aspirations of the Kenyan people.