The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has appointed Harold Kimuge Kipchumba, a person with disability, as the new nominated Member of Parliament representing the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
This appointment follows the vacancy left by John Mbadi, who recently joined President William Ruto’s Cabinet.
In a gazette notice dated July 24, the IEBC stated that the nomination complies with Section 37 of the Elections Act, which governs the replacement of nominated MPs.
Kipchumba’s nomination has been lauded as a progressive move for inclusivity, especially for persons with disabilities in national leadership.
However, it has triggered frustration within the ODM Youth League, who had been lobbying for their president, John Ketora, to succeed Mbadi.
The League argued that appointing Ketora would have signaled ODM leader Raila Odinga’s commitment to youth empowerment.
Despite their appeals, the party’s final pick has left youth leaders feeling sidelined and unheard.
Mbadi’s transition into the Cabinet is part of an ongoing government reshuffle aimed at fostering broader political unity.
His replacement now stirs a new chapter — one that tests ODM’s internal cohesion, its generational balance, and its stance on representation.
Written by Nzomo Joyce
