By TWV Political Editor
As the countdown begins to the November 27 mini polls in 22 constituencies and wards across Kenya, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) finds itself once again embroiled in nomination drama, this time in Kasipul constituency.
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A fierce battle has broken out between two rival factions within the party, exposing deep cracks at the heart of ODM’s leadership. On one side is ODM Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, backed by several MPs and county officials. On the other hand is Siaya Senator Dr Oburu Odinga and his sister Dr Wenwa Akinyi, both siblings of ODM leader Raila Odinga. At stake is not just the party’s ticket, but influence over the political direction of Kasipul.
Governor Wanga has rallied her forces behind Boyd Were, son of the slain MP Ong’ondo Were. At church functions and community gatherings, she has openly presented Boyd as the rightful successor to his father, with some opponents accusing her of deploying county staff and resources to campaign on his behalf. ODM MPs Moses Kajwang’, Opondo Kaluma, Millie Odhiambo, and Rosa Buyu have also urged voters to give Boyd a chance in Parliament.
Oburu and Wenwa, however, are determined to push through their preferred candidate, Kepha Ogada, who happens to be Wenwa’s brother-in-law. Wenwa, usually a quiet player in ODM politics, has seized this moment to step into the spotlight, campaigning vigorously alongside her brother Raila at recent functions in Siaya.
The escalating tussle has unsettled professionals and community leaders in Kasipul, who accuse ODM of seeking to impose leaders instead of allowing a free contest. Tom Awino Okoko, backed by a group of professionals, has convened a meeting of more than 1,500 residents at Agoro Sare to demand a transparent nomination process. “We are calling for free and fair nominations without favouritism,” said Baldwin Oluoch, a member of the caucus.
The Kasipul race has attracted a crowded field of aspirants, including businessman Philip Aroko, Samuel Owida, Okindo Majiwa, Allan Odera, Swaleh Omondi, Ajoh Mbuta, Ken Okoth, and Joash Aloo, among others. Rateng Otiende, Edward Otula and Victor Mbaka have also declared interest, while Robert Money Mabior has already announced he will contest as an Independent candidate, citing mistrust in ODM’s handling of the process.
For Raila Odinga, the looming battle presents a delicate balancing act. Both factions are pressing him to intervene and issue a direct certificate, yet whichever side he chooses risks alienating loyal supporters. With the stakes high and emotions running deep, the Kasipul contest could turn into a test case for ODM’s commitment to internal democracy.
One thing is clear: as November 27 approaches, Kasipul is no longer just another constituency poll. It is fast becoming a theatre of political supremacy, family influence, and the ever-familiar ODM nomination battles that have shaped the party’s history.
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