ODM in process of changing management

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is set to make changes in its secretariat and branches to strengthen party structures.

ODM Secretary General Ababu Namwamba (right) said dissolution of the National Elections Board (NEB) was only the beginning and that many other changes would be effected starting next week.

Mr Namwamba stated that during the recent National Executive Council retreat at Maanzoni, the party resolved to have a leaner but more efficient workforce that will run ODM affairs.

"The restructuring of the entire secretariat is on-going and we want a team that is more professional and responsive to the needs of the people and the party. And that is why you are set to see re-organisation right from Orange House," said Namwamba.

He said the changes would affect branches countrywide since they are the party's eyes on the ground.

Already, Ugunja MP Opiyo Wandayi has been tasked with the role of visiting the branches to sort out leadership wrangles, and at the same time to listen to the issues being raised by officials at the grassroots.

Namwamba also clarified that the branches were very important arms of the party and therefore would have direct access to the party headquarters.

Concerns have been raised by county chairmen claiming they are usually by-passed by branch chairmen who are technically the top officials in every sub-county.

The Budalang'i MP said the party formed county co-ordinating committees, which are headed by county chairpersons, to conform with the current devolution structure, noting the teams were only tasked with co-ordination.

"The county chairpersons are to co-ordinate branch activities and that is why most of the elected leaders are on the committees. But branches report directly to the party top leadership and not the county chairpersons," said Namwamba.