During the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party delegates conference on Friday, East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament Winnie Odinga delivered a forceful appeal for youth inclusion and structural reforms within the party.
Her address highlighted a generational shift in Kenyan politics and underscored the urgency for leadership that listens and empowers ordinary members.
“I stand before you, not just as a proud life member of ODM, but as the voice of the vibrant, hopeful, and resilient young Kenyans from this country,” Odinga stated
She acknowledged her relative youth, noting that while she may be among the youngest on the stage, she carries the aspirations and dreams of a generation seeking meaningful participation in shaping the nation’s political discourse.
Odinga’s remarks focused on a vision for a “new ODM”—one that is inclusive, accountable, and responsive to the grassroots.
She emphasized the need for a party that opens doors rather than closes them, advocating for leadership that actively listens to the concerns of members and acts on their proposals.
“We want participation as young people that extends beyond rallies. We want to be involved, and our voices should shape decisions and negotiations,” she said, calling for a decentralisation of power that empowers branches and grassroots units.
Her speech was a direct appeal to party leadership to broaden engagement beyond ceremonial functions.
Odinga argued that youth involvement should not be symbolic but substantive, influencing key decisions and party strategies.
She stressed the importance of creating structures that allow ordinary members to hold leaders accountable, reinforcing transparency and responsiveness within the party hierarchy.
“We want to hold our leaders accountable. We want a new ODM. We must create space for the people instead of only calling them when we want them to shout,” Odinga stated.
Her comments resonated with many young delegates who have increasingly expressed frustration with what they perceive as top-down decision-making in Kenyan political parties.
By positioning herself as a champion of youth participation and grassroots empowerment, Winnie Odinga has clearly signalled her intent to influence ODM’s trajectory, pressing for reforms that could redefine the party’s approach to governance and internal democracy.