By Njeri Irungu,
21 January 2025,
Nairobi, Kenya.
Youth delegates from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have reaffirmed their support for the Broad-Based Government, saying it remains critical to national stability following last year’s protests against the Finance Bill 2024.
In a press statement delivered on Tuesday in Nairobi, the delegates said the youth-led demonstrations reshaped the country’s political landscape and led to structured engagement with the State, resulting in the formation of the Broad-Based Government. They said the approach was intended to protect constitutional order and prevent instability.
The delegates cautioned against equating youthfulness with leadership, stating that leadership must be demonstrated through responsibility, consistency and results. They urged political actors to prioritise substance over public theatrics.
Reiterating ODM’s founding principles, the group said inclusion remains central to the party’s politics. They described the Broad-Based Government as a platform for national healing and said they support collaborative efforts that expand representation, including engagements with President William Ruto’s administration.
On internal party affairs, the delegates stressed the authority of ODM’s structures, naming Dr. Oburu Oginga as the party’s duly mandated leader with full authority over coalition matters. They said resolutions passed during the party’s Central Management Committee meeting in Kilifi, as well as delegates’ conventions in Busia and Kakamega, are binding on all members.
The youth leaders warned against public disagreements and internal divisions, saying party disputes should be addressed through established organs. They also called on members with leadership ambitions to wait until after the 2027 General Election.
The delegates urged the government to fully implement the 10-point agenda agreed between President Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, saying delivery on key issues including constitutional freedoms, devolution, youth livelihoods and governance reforms should now take priority.
They acknowledged progress in areas such as the right to assemble, a reduction in police excesses and the introduction of youth programmes including NYOTA, but said further action is needed to secure lasting reforms.
The group said it would continue supporting the Broad-Based Government as a stabilising framework, while calling on legislators to focus on oversight, legislation and representation.
They also announced plans to mobilise young people nationwide through an initiative dubbed Operation Linda Ground, aimed at boosting voter registration and national identification uptake ahead of future elections.