ODM grass root leaders from Kiambu county have sharply criticised billionaire Jimmi Wanjigi for allegedly opening party offices without consulting the party’s leadership ahead of the 2022 General Election.
This comes barely days after Wanjigi who has expressed ambitions to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta opened an ODM office in Matasia Ngong where he said it was time to change the leadership of the party.
The grassroot leaders led by Charles Mbugua, ODM Secretary General Kiambu County accused Wanjigi of orchestrating a coup in the party.
Speaking to the Star, the leaders welcomed billionaire Jimmy Wanjigi’s move to change the leadership of the ODM party but said it should be done in accordance with laid down rules and regulations stipulated in the party’s constitution.
“We would very much like to cooperate with him but we ask him to obey the rules of the party in accordance with the ODM constitution,” Mbugua said.
According to them, the move by Wanjigi to open ODM offices in regions where the party has existing and fully functional offices is a step in the wrong direction that could lead to divisions within the party.
Mbugua further wondered why Wanjigi handpicked his close friends and made them officials at a time the party is not holding grassroot elections.
According to Wanjigi, the move is aimed at increasing the number of ODM members ahead of the 2022 presidential race.
The grassroot leaders claim it may be a conspiracy by Wanjigi to get more delegates to help him oust Raila in the presidential flag race.
On Thursday, August 12, Wanjigi welcomed President Uhuru Kenyatta’s move to support former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the top seat saying he is more than ready to face off with him for the ODM ticket.
“I have heard rumors from the media that President Uhuru is supporting a Raila presidency, I welcome the move. In fact, the president should join ODM and campaign for Raila,” Wanjigi said.
