Nairobi, March 7 -- ODM leader Raila Odinga is facing a litmus test as his party gears up for grassroots elections next month amid a raging succession battle.

Mr Odinga's quest for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC) has triggered intense jostling for the top seat, with senior officials scheming to exploit the party elections to plant their allies with an eye on taking over should the former premier succeed in his bid.

ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna told Nation on Wednesday that the outfit's planned April elections remain unchanged.

"Nothing has changed in our plan. The party elections will be on from April 1," said Mr Sifuna.

ODM deputy party leader Wycliffe Oparanya said he will be seeking to retain his positi...