ODM will not bar Cabinet ministers and MPs from contesting its internal elections slated for next month. The party argues that controversy over whether the ministers and MPs were eligible to contest has been clarified by the Political Parties Act 2011, and its members have been given the green light to campaign for the seats. "We are set for these national elections and no one, including ministers, will be blocked from seeking any party positions since the new act allows them," Executive Director Janet Ong'era said.
Ong'era said Cabinet ministers have been included since they are protected under transitional clauses. They are still MPs unlike after the next elections where they will be referred as Cabinet secretaries. She said the party National Elections Board rules have not locked anyone out of contesting in the grassroots polls. "We are determined to ensure NEB conducts free and fair elections and offers a level playing field for all contestants," Ong'era said.
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