ODM Veterans
Honoring those who built the foundation of Kenya's largest democratic movement
Honoring Our Veterans
The ODM Veterans Association recognizes and celebrates the men and women who have dedicated their lives to building and sustaining our democratic movement. These stalwarts have weathered political storms, sacrificed personal comfort, and remained steadfast in their commitment to our cause.
From the founding fathers and mothers who envisioned ODM during the Orange Revolution to the long-serving members who have maintained the party through various challenges, our veterans represent the institutional memory and moral authority of our movement.
The Veterans Association serves not only as a recognition platform but also as a vital resource for mentorship, strategic guidance, and continuity planning within the party structure.
Veteran Categories
ODM veterans are recognized across four main categories based on their years of service and contributions to the party.
Original members who were instrumental in the formation of ODM in 2005, including those who participated in the Orange Revolution.
Criteria:
- Charter members from 2005-2007
- Active participants in Orange Revolution
- Contributors to party constitution
- Leadership roles in early years
Recognition:
Founding Father/Mother status with lifetime membership
Members who have served the party continuously for 15+ years in various capacities, demonstrating unwavering loyalty and commitment.
Criteria:
- 15+ years of continuous membership
- Consistent participation in party activities
- Mentorship of younger members
- Service at multiple organizational levels
Recognition:
Veteran status with special privileges and advisory roles
Former party officials, elected representatives, and leaders who held significant positions and contributed to ODM's growth.
Criteria:
- Former party officials (NEC, NGC members)
- Former elected representatives
- Former cabinet ministers/governors
- Significant leadership contributions
Recognition:
Elder Statesperson recognition and continued advisory capacity
Members who made exceptional contributions to the party through their expertise, resources, or unique service to the movement.
Criteria:
- Exceptional service to party mission
- Significant financial or resource contributions
- Professional expertise benefiting ODM
- Outstanding volunteer service
Recognition:
Distinguished Service Awards and honorary positions
Notable Veterans
Celebrating some of the distinguished veterans who have shaped ODM's journey and Kenya's democratic landscape.
Party Leader & Founding Father
2005 - Present
Visionary leader who conceived and built ODM into Kenya's largest opposition party, champion of democratic reforms.
Key Achievements:
- Led Orange Revolution against flawed 2005 constitution
- Prime Minister during Grand Coalition Government
- Champion of 2010 constitutional reforms
- Presidential candidate in multiple elections
Former Secretary-General & Governor
2005 - Present
Intellectual architect of ODM's ideology and organizational structure, successful county leadership.
Key Achievements:
- Co-founded ODM and developed party constitution
- Former Secretary-General and key strategist
- Governor of Kisumu County (2017-2022)
- Academic and policy development leadership
Veteran Legal Advisor & Senator
2005 - Present
Constitutional lawyer who provided legal foundation for ODM and champion of judicial reforms.
Key Achievements:
- Key legal architect of party structures
- Champion of constitutional reforms
- Long-serving Senator for Siaya
- Defender of democratic institutions
Former Women's Leader & Governor
2007 - Present
Champion of women's rights and gender equality within ODM, successful county leadership.
Key Achievements:
- Former ODM Women's League Chairperson
- Long-serving Member of Parliament
- Governor of Homa Bay County
- Advocate for women's political participation
Veteran Benefits & Services
Comprehensive support and recognition programs for our esteemed veterans.
Advisory Council Membership
Veterans serve on the ODM Advisory Council, providing strategic guidance and institutional memory to party leadership.
Mentorship Programs
Lead mentorship initiatives for young party members, sharing experience and knowledge to build future leaders.
Special Recognition
Receive special recognition at party events, conferences, and celebrations for their contributions to ODM's development.
Welfare Support
Access to party welfare programs including medical support, emergency assistance, and retirement benefits.
Veteran Programs
Active programs designed to leverage veteran experience and ensure their continued contribution to the party.
Ongoing
Recording and preserving the history and experiences of ODM veterans for future generations.
Eligible Participants:
All veteran categories
Annual Program
Pairing veterans with young party members for guidance, skill transfer, and leadership development.
Eligible Participants:
Leadership and Long-service veterans
Continuous Service
Comprehensive welfare program providing health support, emergency assistance, and retirement planning.
Eligible Participants:
All registered veterans
Ongoing Development
Digital archive of party history, decisions, and milestones maintained by veteran contributions.
Eligible Participants:
Founding members and Leadership veterans
Joining the Veterans Association
Membership in the ODM Veterans Association is by nomination and recognition based on years of service, contributions, and commitment to the party's mission and values.
Current party members who meet the criteria for any veteran category can be nominated by fellow members, party officials, or can apply for recognition through the established process.
The Veterans Association meets quarterly and maintains active communication with party leadership to ensure veteran perspectives inform party strategy and decision-making.
Application Process
- Submit nomination form with supporting documentation
- Provide evidence of service and contributions to ODM
- Obtain endorsements from two current veterans or party officials
- Attend interview with Veterans Association review committee
- Await approval and formal recognition ceremony