The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) on September 8, announced changes to its party leadership after resignations and defections of some of its members.

In the Raila’s party changes, Kisii Governor Simba Arati was named deputy national chairperson. Governor Arati replaces former Kisii Women Representative Janet Ong’era.

Ong’era had declared her allegiance to President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.

Busia County MP Catherine Omanyo will replace her predecessor Florence Mutua as the Deputy Secretary General. This was after Florence Mutua resigned from the party after the 2022 elections.

Saboti member of parliament (MP) Caleb Amisi was named as the new deputy organizing secretary.

Amisi will be replacing former Kwale Woman Representative Zulekha Hassan.

At the same time, Fatuma Masito will replace Olga Karani as the deputy national treasurer.

consequently, Migori Senator Eddie Oketch was appointed as secretary for humanitarian and disaster management affairs replacing Bob Njagi.

ODM also made changes to the secretary security docket where Elsie Muhanda was replaced with Justus Kizito.

In a press statement, Raila’s party noted that the changes will take effect immediately, as the new leaders assume their roles in strengthening the party.

ODM elections

New party officials will serve in the various posts till next year when the party is scheduled to hold its party elections.

“The party will hold its grassroots elections early next year. The dates for this exercise will announced by the National Executive Committee,” ODM announced during its NEC meeting on Wednesday.

Shortly after the changes were announced, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi stated that he was ready to strengthen the party at the grassroots level.

“I’m committed to not only bolstering the party’s influence on a national scale but also focusing on strengthening our presence at the grassroots level,” he stated.

Amisi added that he was ready to empower local communities and ensure their voices are heard for a vibrant democracy in the country.

Party rebels expelled

ODM announced the changes two days after expelling some of its members for working with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza government.

Some of the MPs that were kicked out include Phelix Odiwuor alias Jalang’o (Langata), Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Caroli Omondi (Suba South), and Gideon Ochanda (Bondo).