The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has demanded that the National Treasury immediately release Ksh12.6 billion owed to it under the Political Parties Fund. According to the party, the government has failed to disburse the funds for several years despite ODM being one of the main qualified beneficiaries by law.
In a strongly worded statement issued after a Central Committee meeting chaired by acting party leader Oburu Odinga, ODM said the Treasury’s continued delay was politically motivated and a violation of the Political Parties Act. The party insists the funds must be released not only for fairness but also in honour of the late Raila Odinga, who dedicated his life to transparency and accountability in political financing.
“The government has failed to release monies owed to ODM. We are demanding that the funds be released as required by law and in honour of the departed comrade Raila Odinga,” the statement read in part.
ODM leaders say the financial paralysis has crippled operations at both national and grassroots levels, limiting its ability to organize, mobilize, and sustain political activities.
Government Accused of Starving ODM of Legal Entitlements
ODM accuses the Kenya Kwanza administration of deliberately withholding the funds to weaken the party’s influence ahead of the 2027 General Election. Party officials argue that this form of economic sabotage undermines the spirit of multiparty democracy that Raila Odinga and other reformists fought hard to establish.
“The Political Parties Fund is not a favour; it is a legal right. By withholding these funds, the Treasury is punishing millions of Kenyans who believe in ODM’s vision,” said a senior party official.
ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga echoed the sentiments, saying the delay was not only illegal but also disrespectful to the democratic values enshrined in the Constitution. She warned that the government’s continued defiance could force ODM to take legal action to compel compliance.
The Political Parties Act mandates the government to allocate funds annually to qualifying parties based on their representation in Parliament. ODM claims that despite meeting all requirements, the Treasury has remained silent and unresponsive, worsening the party’s financial woes.
Nationwide Memorials to Honour Raila Odinga
Even amid financial challenges, ODM has announced nationwide memorial events to celebrate the life and legacy of Raila Odinga. The events, which will be held in major towns, will give Kenyans an opportunity to honour the late opposition leader’s contributions to democracy, justice, and national unity.
According to ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, the memorials will begin in Kilifi County on the 2nd and 3rd of next month before moving to Homa Bay and Migori on the 5th and 6th.
“The party will hold various memorial events across the country to enable the party to interact with those he inspired,” Sifuna stated.
The memorials are expected to draw massive crowds, reflecting Raila’s deep connection with Kenyans from all walks of life. ODM hopes the events will reignite unity and patriotism among its supporters during this transition period.
ODM at 20 and the Future of the Party
The ODM has also unveiled plans to mark its 20th anniversary, themed “ODM at 20”, in Mombasa County on the 15th and 16th of next month. The celebrations will highlight Raila Odinga’s lifelong commitment to democracy, economic equity, and the rule of law.
During the Central Committee meeting, the party’s management endorsed Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga as the interim party leader, urging all members to rally behind him as ODM charts its next course.
The committee also resolved to begin a nationwide consolidation drive to strengthen grassroots structures, re-energize county networks, and prepare for the 2027 General Election.
“Raila’s unity, sacrifice, and resilience will remain the guiding light for ODM’s next chapter,” the statement concluded.
ODM remains adamant that the government must honour its financial obligations to ensure a fair political environment for all parties. The party believes that by denying it its rightful share, the state is undermining the foundation of Kenya’s democracy—a principle Raila Odinga stood for until his final days.
