ODM announces new nomination system, promises free and fair polls
By Cynthia Lodite, April 16, 2026The Orange Democratic Movement has restated its zero tolerance for unfair party nominations, while introducing new methods for elective positions.
In a statement by the ODM on Thursday, April 16, 2026, the party announced plans to introduce a portal for members to apply for all elective positions.
At the same time, the party assured members and supporters of free and fair nominations and that there would be no sacred cows for any position sought.
“We want to assure our members and supporters that in the build-up to the general election, we shall conduct free and fair nominations and there will be no sacred cows for any position sought. The National Secretariat shall soon be opening a portal for members to apply for all elective positions,” ODM stated.
In addition, ODM has urged its members and supporters to remain focused, steadfast and continue keeping the fire of the Party burning.
“Our members and supporters should remain focused, steadfast and continue keeping the fire of the Party burning. We believe in the spirit of unity and togetherness and we shall continue consulting with Party members on the best ways to make our Party bigger and greater,” ODM stated.
Sifuna’s remarks on ODM nominations
The Party remarks come days after the Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna recalled how he once clashed bitterly with his former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader, Raila Odinga, over the 2015 Homa Bay senatorial by-election.
Speaking during an interview on Herman Manyora’s podcast aired on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, the outspoken senator said the fallout was so intense that he avoided contact with Raila for several days.
Sifuna explained that following the death of then-senator Otieno Kajwang’, the seat was declared vacant. Raila initially announced that ODM would conduct free and fair nominations. However, this led to divisions within the party, with leaders taking sides to support their preferred candidates.
At the time, Sifuna backed his close friend Silas Jakakimba and actively campaigned for him across Homa Bay County. In the middle of the campaigns, Raila changed course and opted to issue a direct ticket to the current Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’, citing a request from the Kajwang’ family that the seat remain within the family.