Nomination Rules
Democratic, transparent, and fair nomination procedures for all ODM party positions
Democratic Nomination Process
The Orange Democratic Movement is committed to conducting free, fair, and transparent nominations for all elective positions. Our nomination process is guided by democratic principles, party constitution, and electoral laws to ensure every member has an equal opportunity to seek leadership positions.
These rules have been developed in accordance with the Political Parties Act, the Elections Act, and the ODM Party Constitution to promote internal democracy and strengthen our party's democratic credentials.
Key Nomination Principles
All nomination processes are conducted openly with clear communication of rules, procedures, and results to all stakeholders.
Every registered party member in good standing has the right to participate in nominations as a voter or candidate.
Equal treatment for all aspirants with no discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, disability, or economic status.
Selection based on competence, integrity, and commitment to party ideals and manifesto.
Clear dispute resolution mechanisms and accountability measures for all party officials involved.
Strict adherence to party constitution, national laws, and IEBC regulations.
Nomination Methods
All registered party members in a specific electoral area vote directly for their preferred candidate.
- Used for presidential, gubernatorial, and parliamentary positions
- Conducted through secret ballot
- Requires 50%+1 to win, with runoff if necessary
- Voting centers established at ward level
Elected delegates from various party organs vote on behalf of members.
- Used for county assembly and some parliamentary positions
- Delegates drawn from branch, ward, and constituency levels
- Proportional representation of youth, women, and PWDs
- Minimum 30% gender representation required
Aspirants agree on a single candidate through negotiation and consultation.
- Facilitated by party elders and officials
- Must be endorsed by at least 70% of party organs
- Written agreement required from all aspirants
- Falls back to voting if consensus fails
National Executive Committee may directly nominate in special circumstances.
- Only when there's a single aspirant
- In cases of strategic party interests
- Must comply with gender and inclusion rules
- Subject to ratification by relevant party organs
Eligibility Requirements
General Requirements
- Must be a registered ODM member for at least 6 months
- Must have paid all party dues and levies
- Must meet constitutional requirements for the position
- Must not have defected from another party in the last 3 months
- Must sign party loyalty pledge and code of conduct
Documentation Required
Valid ODM membership card and certificate- National ID or passport
- Academic certificates (as per position requirements)
- Certificate of good conduct (not older than 6 months)
- Tax compliance certificate
Typical Nomination Timeline
Notice of Nominations (Day 1-7)
Party announces nomination dates and procedures
Application Period (Day 8-21)
Aspirants submit applications and required documents
Vetting Process (Day 22-28)
Verification of documents and eligibility assessment
Campaign Period (Day 29-42)
Cleared aspirants campaign within party guidelines
Nomination Day (Day 43)
Voting conducted at designated centers
Results & Appeals (Day 44-50)
Results announced and appeals window opens
Certificate Issuance (Day 51)
Nomination certificates issued to winners
Appeals & Dispute Resolution
Internal Appeals Process
- File appeal within 48 hours of results announcement
- Pay non-refundable appeal fee as determined by NEC
- Submit evidence and supporting documents
- Appear before Appeals Tribunal within 72 hours
- Receive determination within 7 days
- Final appeal to National Executive Committee
Grounds for Appeal
- Violation of nomination rules and procedures
- Electoral malpractices or irregularities
- Voter bribery or intimidation
- Ineligibility of winning candidate
- Significant discrepancies in vote tallying
- Denial of agent access to polling stations
Special Provisions
Not more than two-thirds of nominees shall be of the same gender. Special measures to ensure women, youth, and PWD representation.
At least 20% of all nominations reserved for youth (35 years and below). Youth League recommendations considered in youth positions.
5% of nominations reserved for persons with disabilities. Accessible voting centers and materials provided.
Aspirants' Code of Conduct
Required Conduct
- Respect all party organs and officials
- Campaign on issues and party manifesto
- Accept nomination results gracefully
- Support the nominated candidate after primaries
- Maintain party unity throughout the process
Prohibited Conduct
- Violence, intimidation, or hate speech
- Vote buying or financial inducements
- Tribalism or discrimination
- Defamation of fellow aspirants
- Undermining party leadership or structures
Note: Violation of the code of conduct may result in disqualification, suspension of membership, or other disciplinary action as determined by the party's disciplinary committee.
Access Full Nomination Documents
Download the complete nomination rules, application forms, and guidelines for all positions.
For More Information
Elections and Nominations Board
Orange House, Chungwa House, Loiyangalani Drive
Email: nominations@odm.co.ke
Tel: 020-5249622