Members of the ODM Youth League are pushing for a stronger voice in the party's decision-making processes. They want to evolve from a structure largely associated with political mobilisation into one that actively develops ideas, contributes to policy, and prepares young members for leadership. According to Omondi Fredrick, the youths are not asking anyone to bypass the constitution, but rather to begin a conversation about their role in the party.
The ODM constitution provides for a Secretary for Youth Affairs who must be not more than 35 years and also serves as national chairperson of the Youth League. The office is responsible for developing advisory opinions and papers on matters affecting young people, coordinating Youth League activities, and promoting party policies among the youth under the direction of the National Executive Committee. Currently, John Ketora holds this position.
The youths say their concerns go beyond securing positions or increasing visibility during campaigns. They point to issues such as artificial intelligence, the digital economy, smart cities, innovation, entrepreneurship, employment, and the future of work as areas that should form part of the Youth League's political conversation. They want to contribute to policy and help shape the direction of the movement.
The statement from the youths seeks to draw a distinction between generational renewal and opposition to older members of the party. They respect the experience of leaders who came before them but want the party to create space for a new generation to participate, contribute, and prepare to take responsibility. The youths acknowledge the party's earlier struggles centred on democracy, constitutionalism, and social justice.
For 20 years, ODM has been part of Kenya's political transformation. The youths argue that the generation now entering political leadership should be allowed to contribute to what they describe as the next phase of the movement. They link their demand to what they call the "Third Wave" — a new phase of political engagement centred on economic liberation.
The youths say they are not asking for shortcuts, and this is not a revolt, but a generational call. When they say "TUNATAKA POWER," they mean the power to participate, influence policy, strengthen the movement, and create a better economic future for their generation. They want to be part of shaping Kenya's economic future.
The push for decision-making roles by ODM youths comes as the party looks to the future, with the next general election scheduled for 2027. The youths' demands reflect a broader trend of young people seeking greater involvement in politics and decision-making processes in Kenya. The party will have to consider these demands as it prepares for the next phase of its journey.
Key points
- ODM youths are pushing for a stronger voice in the party's decision-making processes.
- They want to contribute to policy and help shape the direction of the movement.
- The youths are calling for a new phase of political engagement centred on economic liberation.
