ODM threatens legal action against Treasury over Sh12.6bn funding arrears

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has threatened to sue the National Treasury over Sh12.6 billion in unpaid political party funds, accusing the government of deliberately starving it of resources in violation of the law.

In a statement issued after its Central Committee meeting on Thursday, the Raila Odinga-led party said it had resolved to initiate execution proceedings against the Treasury in a bid to recover the billions it claims are owed.

“The continued refusal by the National Treasury and Parliament to comply with the law on political party funding is unacceptable. The debt owed to ODM now stands at Sh12.6 billion. We have resolved to explore execution proceedings against the National Treasury for recovery of this amount,” the committee said in a communiqué signed by Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna.

The sharp rebuke comes at a time when political parties have raised concerns over delayed and irregular disbursements from the Political Parties Fund, which is mandated to support their operations, grassroots activities and election preparedness.

At the same meeting, the party reviewed its recent grassroots elections, declaring them largely peaceful and democratic across the country. Elections in six counties remain under appeal, while repeat polls are set to be conducted in Busia and Kakamega on August 29 and September 1 respectively.

ODM also announced it will field candidates in 16 out of the 23 electoral areas where by-elections are scheduled for November 27. The party said it would issue direct tickets to its 2022 candidates in Magarini Constituency and Fafi Ward, while inviting applications for the remaining seats.

“The ODM Party remains steadfast in its commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and the consolidation of its position as the party of choice for the people of Kenya,” Mr Sifuna said.

The standoff with Treasury is expected to heighten tensions between ODM and the Kenya Kwanza administration, with the party signalling it will not back down from pressing for what it terms as its lawful entitlement.