The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has dismissed claims that it spent over Ksh100 million to pay delegates who attended its Special Delegates Convention (SDC) held on March 27 at Jamhuri Grounds in Nairobi.
ODM Communications Director Philip Etale strongly denied the reports, which were published by a local newspaper alleging that more than 6,000 delegates were paid up to Ksh25,000 each to attend the event.
Etale termed the claims as false and misleading, stating that the number of delegates did not exceed 3,000 as outlined in the party’s constitution. He argued that the figure of 6,000 delegates mentioned in the report was inaccurate and unsupported.
“Even the party constitution is very clear… delegates to the NDC must not exceed 3,000. Where the figure of over 6,000 is coming from only confirms misinformation,” he said.
He further challenged the publication to provide evidence to support the claims that delegates were paid, insisting that no such payments were made.
According to him, ODM has held similar conventions in the past, none of which required such a large amount of money.
Etale also dismissed suggestions that delegates from Nyanza were given financial incentives, terming the allegations as propaganda aimed at damaging the party’s image.
“No delegate was paid Ksh25,000 as claimed. If there is any proof, let it be presented. False reporting will not build credibility,” he added.
The SDC, which was the first major party gathering since the death of longtime leader Raila Odinga, also exposed internal divisions within ODM.
A rival faction held a parallel meeting at Ufungamano House on the same day, highlighting ongoing tensions within the party.
Despite the controversy, ODM maintains that the convention was conducted in line with party rules and without the alleged financial inducements.
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