The succession battles inside the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have taken a dramatic turn after Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai demanded the immediate removal of National Youth League Leader John Antira Ketora, calling his stay in office “illegal and unconstitutional.”
This intensifies the broader struggle to stabilise the party after the passing of longtime leader Raila Odinga.
In a strongly worded letter dated November 19, 2025, Alai accuses ODM of violating both the Constitution of Kenya and its own internal rules. He argues that Ketora, who is 41, cannot legally serve as Youth League Leader. According to Alai, “You cannot be 41 and claim to lead the youth. The Constitution is clear—youth means 18 to 34.”
The MCA cites Article 260 of the Constitution, which defines the youth bracket, and the ODM Constitution that mirrors this requirement. He insists that Ketora should have vacated the office in 2019.
“From 12th August 2019, Mr. Ketora’s occupancy became null and void,” he writes.
Alai warns that ODM risks undermining its credibility if it disregards laws it expects the national government to follow. “We cannot preach reform while practising impunity within Chungwa House. That hypocrisy destroys the movement,” he states.
He further argues that the Party could be violating the Political Parties Act by retaining an ineligible office holder while receiving public funds. “This amounts to misuse of public resources and denies real youth their rightful representation,” he adds.
Alai demands:
immediate declaration that the position is vacant,
fresh elections within 60 days,
a published election roadmap within 14 days, and
immediate withdrawal of recognition of Ketora.
He frames the crisis as a betrayal of the young members who form ODM’s largest voting bloc. “The youth built this party. Denying them leadership is a betrayal of everything Raila Odinga stood for,” he says.
ODM insiders acknowledge that the youth league has become the newest battleground in the wider contest to control the party’s future. One senior official told The Daily Whistle, “This fight isn’t just about age. It’s about who inherits ODM’s next generation.”
Alai concludes by invoking Raila Odinga’s message on integrity and reform:
“Our late leader taught us to be the change we want to see. ODM cannot demand accountability from the government while enabling illegality within its own structures.”
The party now has seven days to respond, setting up another pivotal moment in ODM’s turbulent transition period.
Do you want to be published? Email info@thedailywhistle.co.ke or WhatsApp 0721930260
You can support this publication via M-Pesa Till Number: 6166112.