Alai argues that Ketora is too old to occupy a position legally reserved for youth, calling the situation a violation of both the Constitution and the party’s own rules.
In a detailed letter addressed to ODM Executive Director Oduor Ong’wen, Alai stated that official documents indicate Ketora was born on August 12, 1984—placing him at 41 years old.
In a detailed letter addressed to ODM Executive Director Oduor Ong’wen, Alai stated that official documents indicate Ketora was born on August 12, 1984—placing him at 41 years old.
According to Article 260 of the Kenyan Constitution, a youth is defined as anyone aged between 18 and 34.
Alai insists Ketora surpassed this threshold six years ago and therefore has no legal mandate to continue serving in the youth leadership.
Alai, a lifelong ODM member and elected MCA, said the party cannot preach about good governance while ignoring basic compliance issues within its internal structures.
Alai, a lifelong ODM member and elected MCA, said the party cannot preach about good governance while ignoring basic compliance issues within its internal structures.
He argued that keeping Ketora in office undermines the rights of younger members who deserve representation, and risks sparking legitimacy questions regarding how state-supported political parties manage public resources.
The MCA issued a series of demands, key among them the immediate declaration of the youth league seat as vacant.
The MCA issued a series of demands, key among them the immediate declaration of the youth league seat as vacant.
He also wants ODM’s National Executive Committee to instruct the National Elections Board to organise fresh elections within 60 days.
Additionally, he asked for a detailed election roadmap within 14 days, along with a verified list of eligible youth members who may contest the position.
According to Alai, allowing a 41-year-old to occupy a youth office “erodes the party’s moral authority” and contradicts the progressive values ODM has championed since its formation.
According to Alai, allowing a 41-year-old to occupy a youth office “erodes the party’s moral authority” and contradicts the progressive values ODM has championed since its formation.
He reminded the leadership that they cannot hold government agencies accountable while overlooking similar issues within the party.
“The eyes of our members, the youth of Kenya, the Auditor-General and the Registrar of Political Parties are upon us,” he wrote.
The dispute comes at a time when ODM is already battling internal wrangles on succession, generational transition and leadership legitimacy.
The dispute comes at a time when ODM is already battling internal wrangles on succession, generational transition and leadership legitimacy.
Critics say the party risks alienating its youthful base if it fails to address complaints like Alai’s with transparency.
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