By Wakhungu Andanje
The Western Region’s delegation of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has endorsed and approved Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the position of African Union Commission Chairperson in the forthcoming elections set to take place on Saturday, 15th February 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
At a vibrant event in Kakamega County, ODM stalwarts from the five counties convened for a special prayer session in support of Odinga’s bid. Led by ODM Party Leader and Kisumu Governor, Professor Anyang’ Nyong’o, the delegates unanimously reaffirmed their commitment to his candidature for the prestigious role.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, who hosted the powerful Western Region delegation, noted that the party is gearing up to celebrate its 20th anniversary, with the festivities culminating in the Coast Region following a nationwide tour. The celebrations will commence in Busia on 28th February.
Barasa, who also serves as ODM’s Kakamega County Chairman, affirmed his dedication to strengthening the party by establishing and equipping offices in each sub-county. “As ODM Kakamega County, we strongly support our party leader and patron, Raila Odinga, for the African Union Commission chairmanship. His appointment will be a significant boost not only for the party but for the country as we prepare for the 2027 general election,” he stated.
Emphasising party unity, Barasa reiterated that ODM remains a formidable force in Kenya’s political landscape and is still among the most influential parties on the continent. He acknowledged the broad-based approach that has seen four ODM leaders join President William Ruto’s administration to contribute to governance.
“We have provided President Ruto with our finest experts to help stabilise his government. What he does with them is up to him. John Mbadi (Finance), Ali Hassan Joho (Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs), Opiyo Wandayi (Roads), and Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives) are currently serving in the Kenya Kwanza administration to assist the country. However, come 2027, we will recall them to steer ODM to victory,” he asserted.
On the upcoming anniversary celebrations, Barasa highlighted that both Kakamega and Busia counties have been steadfast in supporting ODM from the grassroots. “We have chosen Busia as the host for the first national anniversary because it has the largest ODM following in Western Kenya, closely followed by Kakamega.”
He also lauded the courts for ruling in favour of ODM as the majority party in Parliament, saying the verdict has revitalised the party’s strategy for the next elections. “ODM has endured Kenya’s political challenges and remains the strongest and most popular party in Africa. It is now time for ODM to walk the talk and produce Kenya’s next president in 2027.”
The event was attended by senior ODM figures, including Acting Party Leader and Kisumu Governor Professor Anyang’ Nyong’o, Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga, and Deputy Party Leaders Simba Arati (Kisii Governor) and Godfrey Osotsi (Vihiga Senator).
