ODM sets grassroots election dates for Kwale and Taita Taveta Counties
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has released revised dates for grassroots elections in Kwale and Taita Taveta counties, as the party moves to strengthen its grassroots structures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The announcement serves as a corrigendum to an earlier notice issued on July 21, 2025, which had sparked confusion over the election timelines.
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ODM says the new statement aims to clarify and confirm the final dates for the grassroots electoral process in the two coastal counties.
In a statement issued by Emily Awita, Chairperson of the ODM’s National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC), on Thursday, July 31, 2025, the party clarified that elections at both sub-branch (ward) and branch (constituency) levels will be conducted in Kwale and Taita Taveta counties between August 11 and 14, 2025.
“The National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC) will conduct grassroots elections for Kwale and Taita Taveta Counties as follows: sub-branch level on Monday, August 11, and branch level on Thursday, August 14,” the statement read.
The elections in Taita Taveta and Kwale are part of the party’s larger national reorganisation campaign, aimed at revitalising ODM’s presence and preparing local leadership structures. The grassroots elections are widely viewed as a precursor to party primaries and internal realignments ahead of the next general elections.
Grassroot polls
The NECC, based at ODM’s Chungwa House headquarters in Nairobi, is tasked with overseeing the coordination, integrity, and transparency of the party’s internal electoral processes.
“We call on all members and aspirants in the affected counties to prepare accordingly and ensure full participation,” Awita said.
The coastal region remains a critical battleground for Raila’s ODM, which has traditionally enjoyed strong support there. These elections are expected to influence not just local party leadership but also the broader political alliances shaping up ahead of 2027.
The party has been under pressure to reform its internal democratic processes and increase inclusivity in leadership selection. The rollout of structured grassroots elections is seen as a strategic step in that direction.
With the official dates now set, all eyes are on how the contests in Kwale and Taita Taveta will unfold and what they may signal for ODM’s national prospects.
