Jimi Wanjigi Blocked From Opening ODM Office In Murang'a

Presidential hopeful Jimi Wanjigi meeting Luo leaders in Nairobi on Friday, July 9, 2021
Presidential hopeful Jimi Wanjigi meeting Luo leaders in Nairobi on Friday, July 9, 2021
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Businessman turned politician, Jimi Wanjigi was blocked by police from opening an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party office in Murang'a.

According to reports by the Standard, police stated that they had not been informed by Wanjigi's team of the event.

The Wanjigi's team on August 16, 2021, notified the police that it would get the necessary approvals and documentation as well as follow the laid down procedures.

An image of Raila and Wanjigi
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga (left) and Businessman Jimmy Wanjigi (right) attending a church service in Bondo, Siaya County on Sunday 11 October 2020.
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"We had issues with the plan. They had not notified us of their plan and when Wanjigi's team came, we advised them to follow the process and that is where we left it," Murang'a South Police boss, Alex Shikondi, was quoted by the publication.

ODM Chairman, John Mbadi, on Wednesday, August 18, criticized the move by Wanjigi adding that the party already had offices in the town.

The Suba South lawmaker opined that Wanjigi should have consulted with ODM's national officials before planning to open an office in Murang'a.

“We have a procedure of opening party offices, and we have made formal communication that all ODM party offices must be directly under the guidance of the secretariat since ODM is a party," he stated.

Mbadi further criticized Wanjigi over the early campaigns noting that the move is not good for the party. 

When he announced his shot at the presidency, Wanjigi revealed that he intends to run on an ODM party ticket. The billionaire announced that he was ready to take on former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the party's top spot.

"As an ODM life member, I have what it takes to lead the party and the country, into the future," the billionaire was quoted by the publication.

Wanjigi, who has been a silent actor in Kenya's politics, confirmed that he would be active and would not play the role of a kingmaker anymore.

An image of Raila and Wanjigi
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga (left) and Businessman Jimmy Wanjigi (right) attending a church service in Bondo, Siaya County on Sunday 11 October 2020.
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