From Protest to Purpose: ODM Youth League Push for Intergenerational Conclave Reset
The Orange Democratic Movement ( ODM) Youth League has issued a passionate call to action ahead of the much-anticipKenya Must Speak to Its Soulated Intergenerational National Conclave, urging young people across the country to step up, speak out, and claim their space in shaping Kenya’s future.
In a joint statement delivered by Davis Odhiambo, the League drew from the nation’s rich history of struggle and resilience, invoking the spirit of freedom icons like Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Dedan Kimathi, and Wangari Maathai.
“We stand on the shoulders of giants,” Odhiambo said. “62 years ago, we hoisted our flag in triumph. Today, we must ask are we still the pride of Africa?”
The League warned that Kenya is at a crossroads, with rising frustration among the youth due to exclusion, economic hardship, and political neglect.
“We’ve become statistics, hashtags, and sidekicks in a system that does not listen,” Odhiambo lamented, noting that many young people feel unheard, disrespected, and betrayed.
The Intergenerational Conclave, proposed by ODM leader Raila Odinga earlier this month, is envisioned as a platform for honest national dialogue one that bridges generational gaps and addresses the deep inequalities plaguing the country. “Dialogue brought us independence, multi-party democracy, and a new constitution,” Odhiambo said. “It must now help us reclaim the dream of Kenya.”
The League posed hard-hitting questions: Are our young women safe? Is our education system working? Do our police live with dignity? Is justice truly our shield and defender?
Calling for participation from all corners urban slums, rural villages, lecture halls, mosques and churches the League stressed that unity and truth are Kenya’s only hope. “We sing the same anthem. We bleed the same blood. The time has come to forgive and forge forward,” the statement declared.
In a final rallying cry,the League saluted the spirit of national heroes and reaffirmed faith in dialogue: “When Kenya finally sits down to speak to itself, Kenya will win.”
