ODM THREATENS LEGAL ACTION AGAINST NATIONAL TREASURY OVER KSH12.6 BILLION IN UNRELEASED POLITICAL PARTY FUNDS

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has accused the National Treasury of withholding funds legally owed to political parties.

In a statement issued Thursday, the party said Treasury has failed to release Ksh12.6 billion due to ODM under the Political Parties Fund.

ODM’s Central Committee resolved to pursue legal action to compel the Treasury to comply with the law. The committee said the delay has disrupted the party’s ability to meet financial obligations.

Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, speaking after the meeting, criticized what he described as a pattern of non-compliance by Treasury and Parliament. “The committee has resolved to explore execution proceedings against the National Treasury for the recovery of this amount,” the statement read.

Despite the financial strain, the party praised its National Treasurer and Secretariat for managing available resources prudently. It also adopted its financial report for the 2024/2025 fiscal year.

On elections, ODM confirmed it will field candidates in the November 27 by-elections across most constituencies. Exceptions will be made in Magarini Constituency and Fafi Ward, where 2022 candidates are set to receive direct tickets.

The party said it will open applications for other constituencies while preparing for repeat elections in Busia and Kakamega counties. Those polls are scheduled for August 29 and September 1.

ODM also addressed disputes in six counties where elections remain under appeal. Earlier this month, the party indefinitely suspended Busia’s branch elections, citing unresolved issues.

Party leader Raila Odinga and senior ODM officials are expected to oversee the by-election preparations in the coming weeks.