Acting ODM Leader Anyang Nyong’o has called on party members to approach the upcoming party elections with seriousness and integrity, emphasizing the need to elect capable leaders who will strengthen the party at the grassroots level.
Even as the party gears up for its 20th-anniversary celebrations this year, Nyong’o underscored that the forthcoming election would be crucial in ensuring the party remains strong and prepared for future challenges.
"Party elections are coming, and as party members, please take them seriously," he said in Seme during his Thanksgiving ceremony at Ratta ACK Church.
Nyong’o added that they must also put their house in order and have leaders at the grassroot who will guide the party.
"Elect good people who will lead you. And those who want positions don't get them. You will get a better reward in heaven if you start faithfully serving the people. "
Nyong’o expressed a sense of both honour and responsibility as he stepped into Raila Odinga's role, acknowledging the difficulty of filling such large shoes.
However, he conveyed his commitment to the party and the need for unity among its members.
"Let's work and join together as party members as people who want the country to succeed, and ensure we give the leadership that we can be proud of."
As ODM prepares to celebrate two decades since its founding, Nyong’o highlighted the party's legacy of resilience and success.
He urged members to take pride in ODMs accomplishment and to continue registering as party members, which would support voter reflection efforts ahead of the next General elections.
"This year, we are celebrating 20 years of ODM existence, and I want you as members to be proud of this party and make it stronger," Nyong’o said.
The acting party leader also assured the members, saying that Raila’s absence will not weaken ODM's leadership, calling upon them to work together.
"As Raila says, Addis Ababa is near here. What can stop him from coming," he remarked.
He added that Raila has left them in charge to ensure the ODM party is strong so that when they go to elections, they win, adding that they have the capacity and people to make it happen.
Present at the event included ODM Party Chairperson Gladys Wanga, Migori Governor Ochilo Ayako, MPs Kisumu Central Joshua Oron, Nyakach Aduma Owuor, Kisumu West Rosa Buyu, Nyando Jared Okelo, and Seme's James Nyikal, among party officials, delegates and members including other leaders present.