By Hilda Atika
Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa has called for renewed efforts to strengthen the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, assuring supporters that the party remains strong and united.
Speaking during an ODM Delegates Meeting held under the theme “Celebrating 20 Years of Greatness – Making ODM Bigger, Better and Stronger”, Governor Barasa, who also serves as the ODM Chairperson for Kakamega County, reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to party leader Raila Odinga. He emphasised the county’s continued collaboration with the national government ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Barasa urged Raila to provide direction to ODM supporters, affirming that the former Prime Minister remains focused on uniting Kenyans. He dismissed claims of disunity within the party, stating that there is no confusion, only a shared resolve to strengthen the movement.
The governor further expressed the party’s support for the Broad-Based Government, crediting Raila’s leadership for steering them in that direction. He underscored its importance by highlighting its role in securing funding for the ongoing construction of Bukhungu Stadium. According to Barasa, the National Government has allocated KSh1.5 billion, while the County Government has committed KSh700 million towards the completion of the stadium by June 2026.
In addition, he revealed that the County Teaching and Referral Hospital is expected to be completed within six months.
Barasa urged Raila to follow up on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with President William Ruto, noting that implementation of the agreement would benefit the region significantly.
He praised the democratic values within ODM, acknowledging that while supporters have the right to provide oversight, leaders must uphold discipline and show respect to Raila. He called on party members to avoid actions that may cause confusion.
“As the ODM leader in Kakamega, I want to assure you that this region is firmly under ODM,” Barasa declared. He added that he would traverse all 60 wards in the county, which have already held ODM elections at the polling station, ward, and sub-branch levels.
“We are ready to complete county-level elections and proceed to national elections, working with leaders who are committed to promoting the party’s agenda,” he stated. Barasa also thanked Busia Governor Paul Otuoma and Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo for attending the event, calling their presence a testament to ODM’s commitment to social democracy and effective leadership.
He echoed Raila Odinga’s call to embrace democracy as the party’s guiding principle.
Raila and Governor Barasa jointly condemned extra-judicial killings witnessed during the 2023 Finance Bill protests, particularly the abductions and mistreatment of young people, including Gen Z demonstrators.
