Kidero sets sights on top ODM job

Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero is now eyeing a top leadership position in the Orange Democratic Movement.

His new desire to take a shot at the job comes at a time when there is a growing agitation among the party’s Young Turks who are demanding new blood from the grassroots to the national level.

They believe the party lost to Jubilee in the March 4 election because of lack of involvement of the youth in decision making.

The Young Turks want the party to rebrand itself as it prepares for the 2017 election.

Some ODM youths from the counties of Nakuru, Baringo, Narok, Laikipia, Kericho and Bomet have thrown their weight behind Dr Kidero.

Their spokesman, Nakuru ODM youth leader Hilton Abiola said they had resolved to back Dr Kidero for the national vice-chairman post.

The post is currently held by Mr Ramadhan Kajembe.

“In the few months he has been the governor of Nairobi, Dr Kidero has proved that he has leadership qualities that would be useful in revamping ODM. That is why we want to elevate him to national vice-chairman,” said Mr Abiola.

Dr Kidero said he was not afraid of going for the top seat but was yet to make a firm decision.

“I’m ready to serve my party in any capacity and give it my best shot. I will not shy away from providing quality leadership if given an opportunity,” Dr Kidero told the Nation in an interview.

“I read in the media about some party supporters, mostly the youth, who want me to take up a senior position,” he said.

He said he has not yet met the party’s top brass to discuss the matter.

“I hope to have a meeting with them soon,” he said.

Dr Kidero’s brand of leadership and his management style has seen him win support from both Cord and Jubilee supporters in the city.