ODM demands Ksh12.6B from treasury, threatens court showdown
By Faith Lagat, August 28, 2025The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has escalated its battle with the government, demanding Ksh12.6 billion in unpaid political party funding from the National Treasury.
In a press release issued on August 28 after a Central Committee meeting at Chungwa House, the party accused Treasury and Parliament of failing to honour their legal obligations.
Secretary General Edwin Sifuna announced that ODM would pursue execution proceedings against the Treasury, setting the stage for a potentially explosive legal contest that could reshape Kenya’s political funding framework.
“Of concern, however, is the continued refusal by the National Treasury and Parliament to comply with the law on political party funding and failure to settle the debt owed to ODM, which now stands at a whopping 12.6 billion shillings. The committee has resolved to explore execution proceedings against the National Treasury for recovery of this amount,” read a statement by ODM.
Grassroots push
The financial standoff coincides with a period of internal restructuring as ODM prepares for the 2027 General Election. The party has rescheduled delegate elections in Busia for August 29 and in Kakamega on September 1, after logistical challenges forced a postponement in four counties earlier in the week.
Overseen by the National Elections Coordinating Committee, chaired by Emily Awita, the grassroots polls are designed to strengthen internal democracy. Aspirants are required to pay nomination fees ranging between Ksh 1,000 and Ksh 10,000.
2027 calculus
The Ksh12.6 billion demand could significantly boost ODM’s campaign finances if the Treasury is compelled to comply. Party leaders have commended their 2024/2025 financial stewardship, arguing that the additional funds would allow them to mount a stronger challenge in upcoming contests.