The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has unveiled a new lineup of youth leaders as the party moves to reinvigorate its grassroots structures ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, the announcement has sparked fresh controversy over the role of former Youth League leader Kasmuel Odhiambo, whose influence within the party remains a point of debate.
The new team was introduced on Friday at the party headquarters in Nairobi, where ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna said the restructuring was aimed at giving young people more direct involvement in party activities.
Sifuna noted that the youth leadership had become critical, especially after ODM’s intensified outreach program targeting first-time voters.
But the event quickly attracted attention online after a section of party supporters questioned the absence of Kasmuel, who had previously been vocal about reforms within the Youth League.
Some youths claimed that his removal from active leadership was politically motivated.
Linking it to recent internal tensions over succession and the party’s direction following Raila Odinga’s shifting regional engagements.
Responding to the concerns, Sifuna clarified that Kasmuel had not been expelled and that he still remained an ODM member.
He added that the changes were part of a routine organizational update meant to align the party with current political realities. “This is not about sidelining anyone.
It is about ensuring that youth voices are better represented and that the party’s structures reflect today’s needs,” he said.
Today’s announcement coincides with ODM’s broader plan to win back influence in counties where the party has recently faced competition from emerging youth movements.
Party insiders say the changes are expected to strengthen coordination ahead of upcoming by-elections and coalition talks.
Despite the controversy, the new youth leaders promised to focus on mobilization, voter registration, and party loyalty campaigns in the coming months.
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