Nairobi.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has announced significant changes in its National Assembly House and committee leadership following the recent nominations of its members to the Cabinet. The party’s Central Management Committee, chaired by opposition leader Raila Odinga, met on Wednesday to finalize these adjustments.
Pending communication from Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, the changes will see Suna East MP Junet Mohamed elevated to the position of Minority Leader, replacing Ugunja MP Opiyo Wandayi, who has been nominated to the Energy docket. Junet Mohamed, a three-term MP and a close ally of Mr. Odinga, is a key figure in the ODM’s inner circle.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo will assume the role of Minority Whip, succeeding Junet Mohamed. A veteran legislator since 2007, Ms. Odhiambo has been a staunch supporter of Mr. Odinga and a vocal critic of the government. Known for her strong statements and advocacy, she brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new role.
At the committee level, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi will take over as Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee from John Mbadi, who has been nominated as Cabinet Secretary for Treasury and National Planning. Funyula MP Wilberforce Oundo will step into the role of Vice Chairperson of the Public Investments Committee, previously held by Mr. Amisi.
These changes follow the resignation letters submitted by the members nominated to the Cabinet. The ODM party is also in the process of filling additional vacancies, including the positions held by Mr. Odinga’s two deputies, Wycliffe Oparanya and Hassan Joho, who have been nominated as ministers for Mining and Blue Economy and Cooperatives, respectively. Beatrice Askul Moe, a former member of the Party Elections Board, is set to be replaced following her nomination as Cabinet Secretary for East African Community affairs.
ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna stated that the proposed leadership changes will be presented to the Azimio parliamentary group for approval. “In light of the vacancies created by these nominations, the Party will engage in broad consultations with its membership to fill these positions,” said Mr. Sifuna.
The ODM party reaffirmed its commitment to the Azimio coalition, clarifying that no coalition agreement has been made with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza coalition. “ODM remains a member of the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition and will continue to advocate for accountability, transparency, and equity in governance,” Mr. Sifuna emphasized.