Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party Leader, Oburu Odinga, has urged young people to register as voters in preparation for the upcoming general elections.
Oburu reminded the youth that registering as voters will empower them politically to influence decisions that affect their lives, including education, employment, health, and social policies.
Speaking during a press briefing at Uasin Gishu County Headquarters, before presiding over ODM Delegate meeting in Eldoret, Oburu reaffirmed the party’s commitment to support the Broad-Based Government, where the late brother Raila Odinga left them.
He praised the Broad-Based Government, crediting it with bringing together leaders from across the political divide to promote national unity, stability, and inclusive development.
Oburu mentioned that they are on a countrywide consultative tour to engage ODM delegates and grassroots leaders on matters concerning Party leadership, unity, and its future.
The Tour, he stressed, is aimed at strengthening internal democracy, enhancing cohesion within the party, and providing a platform for delegates to openly share their views and aspirations regarding ODM’s leadership and organizational structures.
Through these consultations, he added, the Party seeks to reinforce its commitment to inclusive dialogue and participatory decision-making.
The party leader said ODM will hold meetings across various regions, emphasizing the importance of unity, discipline, and collective responsibility as ODM continues to position itself as a strong and progressive political movement.
Earlier, speaking in Eldoret during a delegates meeting ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati said the party is still intact and vibrant up to the grassroots level.
Arati noted that Eldoret’s cosmopolitan nature requires inclusivity of all communities to ensure collective advancement.
He said ODM leaders have reaffirmed that the Party is not in opposition but part of the broad-based government.
Arati alluded to the fact that the country would become a global powerhouse if leaders united and worked closely with President William Ruto while remaining organized.
He urged Party members to remain fearless, even in the face of intimidation, including teargas and stone-throwing, as they advance the party’s agenda.
The Chairman of the Unemployed Youth in Eldoret, Kevin Oyoo, called for inclusive employment, urging authorities to hire members of minority communities to ensure equal job opportunities.
Oyoo, who hails from Kapseret, said discussions on a Broad-Based Government, would be meaningless without inclusivity in decision making.
Meanwhile, persons with disabilities raised concerns that they continue to feel marginalized, noting that many are forced to use their own funds to purchase assistive devices such as wheelchairs in order to live with dignity and ease.
By Ekuwam Sylvester
