ORPP Defers ODM Youth League Leadership Dispute to Internal Party Resolution
News Updated: 17 December 2025 14:40 EAT
Kileleshwa MCA,Robert Alai
The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) has instructed the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to internally resolve a leadership dispute involving its National Youth League head.
The directive follows a formal complaint lodged by Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai, who challenged the eligibility of the current leader, 41-year-old John Ketora.
In a letter addressed to ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Registrar John Lorionokou confirmed receipt of Alai’s petition and forwarded it to the party for "further action in line with the party constitution."
The challenge against Ketora is based on two primary arguments:
Age Ineligibility: Alai points to Article 260 of the Constitution of Kenya, which defines "youth" as individuals between the ages of 18 and 35. At 41, Ketora is alleged to be occupying the seat illegally.
Conflict of Interest: The petition notes that Ketora’s recent appointment as Chairman of the Jomo Kenyatta Foundation board should disqualify him from holding a party leadership position.
Alai asserts that the ODM Party Constitution (amended in 2021) explicitly requires the Youth League leader to meet the national constitutional definition of a youth. He argues that this requirement must be maintained throughout the leader's entire tenure, not just at the time of election.
"The definition [of youth] is binding on all persons and institutions in Kenya, including registered political parties." He stated
The party is now expected to review the complaint through its internal dispute resolution mechanisms. This process will determine if Ketora will be allowed to finish his term or if a transition to a younger leader is required to align with both party and national laws.
Tags: Editor's Pick Odm
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