Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly (MCA) Robert Alai has issued a warning to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), claiming that the party’s failure to authentically engage with its younger members could lead to its eventual collapse.

Speaking during an interview with a local station on Monday, March 30, 2026, Alai argued that the party is currently shooting itself in the foot by relying on outdated methods and failing to provide leadership that resonates with the youth.

Alai revealed that he has been reminding the party leadership that decisions made by the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the Central Management Committee could be legally challenged.

“We have ignored the voice of the young people in ODM, and that is very true. And I reminded, in fact, in my last letter, I think two months ago, the ODM that every decision you make at the NEC under the central management committee can be easily nullified because the person who is representing the young people there is close to 50 years,” Alai said.

Youth’s language

Alai noted that young people within the party are increasingly grumbling because they lack a leader who speaks their language.

According to Alai, the party, instead of sticking to the usual and old ways of doing things, should be embracing modern platforms like weekly podcasts to discuss political growth and volunteerism.

“These young people need leadership; they need somebody who can talk to them in their language. ODM should be having a weekly podcast; you know they’re discussing their matters. How do we grow the political movement? How do you do the volunteership?” Alai said.

“These young people with a cell phone can be doing wonders for this party.”

Impact of the youth

Alai emphasised that listening to the youth is not just a preference but a necessity for the party’s survival.

He warned that if the youths are ignored, the ODM will not be able to sustain itself over the next five years.

“I don’t think that ODM can sustain itself for the next 5 years without the voice of the young people,” Alai warned.