Jimmy Wanjigi Calls for Free and Fair Elections of ODM Officials, Opposes Consensus

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  • Jimmy Wanjigi asked the ODM party to conduct free and fair elections for grassroots, branch and county officials to inject fresh blood into the outfit
  • He opposed the plans to have elections abandoned in favour of consensus
  • Wanjigi said he understands the party constitutional requirements regarding the suitability of its presidential flagbearer

Billionaire businessman Jimmy Wanjigi has demanded the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) certified delegates list.

The 2022 presidential aspirant raised rigging concerns amid reports the outfit was rooting for consensus instead of electing new grassroots officials.

Wanjigi termed the planned move as a gross violation of the party constitution.

“It is vague, improper, and clearly flies in the face of the mood of members who wish to participate in a transparent democratic process to reinvigorate the party for the 2022 elections."

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Wanjigi said there was no notice of the elections in any national newspaper, and as such, the process was unconstitutional as per the party's guidelines.

"It is in the interests of the party that these processes at the grassroots and branch levels be conducted transparently since these officials will comprise the National Delegates Conference that will elect national officials and the presidential ticket holder.

Presidential race

In June, Wanjigi officially declared his interest in the 2022 presidential race joining a crowded field of aspirants intending to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta.

The businessman who has been funding politicians behind the scenes said it was time to go for the top seat after playing 'kingmaker' for some time.

"Let me confirm that I shall be active in politics and I will not be playing my previous role as kingmaker," he said.

Speaking in Siakago, Embu county, on Saturday, September 4, Wanjigi said he understands the party's constitutional requirements regarding its presidential flagbearer's suitability.

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"I'm an ODM life member, I am fully aware of the methods the party may use to pick its presidential flag-bearer. I would like to remind Raila that the ODM constitution lays it out very well in Article 6 that all national officials shall be elected by the national delegates conference," he stated.

Wanjigi decried the lack of opportunities for the Kenyan youths given the tough economic environment and unfavourable government policies which he promised to change once elected president.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

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