Nassir defends ODM leadership decisions, cites party constitution and consensus

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has defended recent leadership decisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying the party followed its constitution and that all resolutions were reached unanimously and in accordance with the rules.

Nassir dismissed claims that recent ODM mobilisation efforts under the Linda Ground initiative were financed by individuals rather than the party.

This follows remarks by ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna regarding the source of resources used in the Linda Ground rallies across the country.

Sifuna said that, as a signatory to the party’s bank account alongside National Treasurer Timothy Bosire, they had not authorised any withdrawals to facilitate the rallies.

However, Nassir said ODM has historically relied on goodwill from its leaders and supporters rather than formal party funds.

“These Linda Ground activities have not been financed by the party. But I have one question: when we were moving around the country with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, was the party financing those activities?” Nassir said on Wednesday.

“This party has many people who support it and do not necessarily focus on finances. If there is an activity in Mombasa or the Coast, the governor, not in his position as governor but as deputy party leader, will personally mobilise resources to ensure it succeeds,” he said.

Nassir also addressed remarks by Sifuna suggesting that a deputy party leader should automatically assume leadership following former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s death.

Citing precedent, Nassir said ODM could not allow a leadership vacuum.

“When Raila stepped aside to vie for the AU position, we already had deputy party leaders. We made a conscious decision to ensure the party continued to have leadership. ODM cannot afford a vacuum at any point,” he said.

He said the decision to appoint Oburu Odinga as acting party leader followed consultations and approval across party organs.

“We met with the National Executive Committee and briefed them. I raised the issue of appointing a leader before anyone could start claiming ownership of the party. I proposed Oburu Odinga, and the decision was unanimous, with quorum and signed minutes,” Nassir said.

The proposal was later ratified by the Central Committee and the National Governing Council, he added.

“Everyone was unanimous. Oburu was given respect and support. No one opposed the move. The only remaining step is the National Delegates Convention,” he said.

Nassir, who is also the party's deputy leader, dismissed arguments that ODM’s 10-point agenda document could not be amended because one of its signatories is deceased.

Drawing a parallel with the Constitution of Kenya, he questioned the logic of treating party documents as immutable.

“The Constitution was written with the understanding that even its author, Raila Odinga, would not live forever. Does that mean it can never be amended? How can anyone say everything is cast in stone?” he asked.

He also said ODM members tasked with preparing the document deserve a fair hearing.

“The people who prepared that report are our own members. We chose them. How do we criticise them without allowing them to present their report to their principals?” Nassir said.