Ndolo Claims Linda Mwananchi Faction Holds ODM Certificate Amid Party Dispute

Edwin Sifuna A fresh dispute has emerged within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after former Makadara MP Reuben Ndolo claimed that his faction has the party’s official certificate.

In an interview on Radio 47, Ndolo asserted that the Linda Mwananchi camp holds what he termed the authentic ODM registration document. This claim could have significant implications for the party’s leadership and control.

“Sisi kama Linda Mwananchi ndiyo tuko na certificate ya ODM,” Ndolo stated.(“We, as the Linda Mwananchi side, are the ones with the ODM certificate.”)

He further dismissed rival factions within the party, suggesting they lack the legal backing to steer ODM affairs.

The remarks come amid heightened internal wrangles within ODM, with factions—most notably Linda Mwananchi and Linda Ground—engaged in a contest for influence and leadership within the party.

Possession of a party certificate is often associated with legitimacy in leadership and recognition by the Registrar of Political Parties, making Ndolo’s claims particularly significant in the context of the ongoing standoff.

However, there has been no official confirmation from the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties regarding the authenticity of the claims or whether any changes to ODM’s legal documentation have been effected.

The latest developments highlight deepening divisions within ODM as rival camps continue to assert control over the party’s structure and future direction.