ODM Raises Alarm Over Government’s Handling of Its Finances

The ODM party has expressed dissatisfaction with the disbursement of its funds by the government, despite the Political Parties Registrar (ORPP) announcing the allocated amount.

On Thursday, the party’s Secretary-General, Edwin Sifuna, stated that out of the allocated Ksh 308 million, they have only received Ksh 50 million so far, significantly impacting their financial operations.

Sifuna mentioned that the party has been facing financial challenges, particularly in paying office rent and conducting activities related to registering new members.

“We are in the process of registering our members nationwide. However, we have been forced to halt our activities due to insufficient funds. We urge the Kenya Kwanza government to release these funds as it hampers us as a political party,” said Sifuna in an interview with a radio station.

According to Sifuna, in the initial budget estimates for the 2023/2024 fiscal year, political parties were supposed to be allocated a total of Ksh 6 billion. However, the government reduced this amount to Ksh 1.6 billion.

“In essence, ODM would have received a total of Ksh 877 million, but these funds were reduced to only Ksh 308 million! As if that is not enough, the government is still holding back these funds even after cutting them!” Sifuna complained.

In the latest disbursement, the UDA ruling party received the largest share, being allocated Ksh 576 million.

However, like ODM, UDA has also complained about receiving a “small amount of money.”

Other parties that received substantial allocations include Jubilee and Wiper, receiving Ksh 135 million and Ksh 72 million, respectively.

These parties are associated with former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Kalonzo Musyoka.