ODM Unveils Disaster Response Team

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) led by Raila Odinga has demonstrated its commitment to addressing the ongoing flood crisis.

The party has unveiled the formation of a dedicated 9-member Disaster Response Team tasked with coordinating relief efforts across the nation. The team comprises various individuals including legislators, county representatives, and party officials, collectively representing various regions affected by the floods. Notably, Migori Senator Eddy Gicheru and Seme MP James Nyikal will spearhead the efforts in Raila's stronghold of Nyanza. Likoni MP Mishi Mboko will lead the committee's initiatives in the Coast region, while Nasra Nanda, Peter Imwatok, and Abbas Khalif will represent Nairobi.

Additionally, Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo and the party's youth director Benson Musungu have been enlisted to contribute their expertise. In a statement, Raila Odinga reiterates ODM's unwavering commitment to mobilizing funds and resources to support flood victims across the country. He highlights that party leaders have already initiated fundraising events echoing the broader call for Kenyans to contribute beyond the Sh10,000 provided by the national government. Interestingly, ODM's mobilization efforts run parallel to those of the Azimio la Umoja coalition which has proposed a similar initiative.

Despite Azimio leader Raila Odinga being absent from the press conference, his party's actions demonstrate a unified front in addressing the crisis. The call for increased financial support was initially voiced by Wiper Leader and Azimio Principal Kalonzo Musyoka during a speech on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Mai Mahiu in Naivasha Sub-county was today shrouded in sadness as Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua led the nation in a solemn ceremony to honour the 62 lives tragically lost in the recent devastating floods.

The occasion witnessed an outpouring of emotions with attendees visibly moved as they pinned photographs of the deceased on a commemorative board. The sombre event drew a distinguished gathering, including sitting governors, senators, members of parliament, and local ward representatives, all united in paying their last respects to the departed.