Bloodshed, confusion mar ODM elections in Nyanza and Western

Police officers keep vigil while Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) members take part in the grassroot election at Labgas Primary School in Uasin Gishu County. [Peter Ochieng, Standard] The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) grassroots elections in the Western and Nyanza regions were yesterday marred by violence and confusion, save for a few areas. The elections, held at the ward level, saw delegates elected from location-level polling stations convene to choose leaders for key positions, including mainstream party roles, the women's and youth league. In Homa Bay, one youth lost his left palm and fingers, while another sustained a fractured arm during the primaries in Ndhiwa Constituency. The man, identified as Elvis Omondi, 25, lost his left wrist during political violence that erupted at Buche Primary School, Kachola sub-location in Kanyamwa Kologi Ward. According to Ndhiwa sub-County police commander John Losia, the violence broke out when fighting erupted between residents and a group of youths they accused of being hired from outside Ndhiwa. Residents alleged that the non-local youths intended to disrupt the election. In the same incident, another young man, identified as David Oluoch, also sustained serious injuries. The 22-year-old suffered a shoulder fracture after being assaulted with a blunt object. He also sustained a deep cut on his back before being rushed to Ndhiwa sub-County Hospital. Ndhiwa sub-County Medical Officer of Health, Nicodemus Odundo, said they managed to stabilise the youth by stopping the bleeding. Speaking after casting his vote at Nyandiwa Primary School in West Kamagak Ward, Kasipul Constituency, Homa Bay Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga urged residents to create a conducive environment to enable every ODM member exercise their democratic right. He said they wanted elections that would strengthen the party. "We are focusing on having a formidable party that will clinch power in the 2027 General Election," Magwanga said. However, in Matayos Constituency, Busia County, the elections were suspended due to insecurity. Matayos joined other constituencies where elections have been postponed due to various issues, including perceived hostility, legal disputes, and logistical challenges. In Lurambi Constituency, Kakamega County, the elections were conducted peacefully and successfully. Party members commended ODM leadership for delivering what many described as the most transparent and fair grassroots election in the party's history. "This is the first time we've had such an open and peaceful process. It gives us confidence in the leadership," said Vincent Mumia. He said the voting was conducted either through consensus or a show of hands. "We did our elections with a show of hands, and it was more peaceful than other elections that we have ever witnessed. I urge other counties to emulate the same," he said. In Migori County, the primaries were marked by confusion as some parts of the county experienced violence. Fracas erupted at several polling stations in Uriri sub-County where factions clashed. In Migori town, Suna East, two factions voted separately despite being required to cast their votes at a central venue. Some votes were cast at Migori Stadium grounds, while others were cast at Ngege Primary School. However, Kenneth Mauko, the ODM constituency manager for Suna Central Ward, downplayed the incident, saying the process conducted at Ngege Primary School was legitimate. "Anyone with the intention of bringing a parallel list should know that the official list from the party is what will be used for a fair and just election," Mauko said. He stated that the elections had been peaceful and that voters had elected credible leaders. Mauko suggested that those conducting parallel elections "might have been compromised and are serving the interests of other individuals", rather than those of the party and its leader. He expressed hope that the sub-county elections scheduled for April 9 would proceed peacefully. Suna Central Ward MCA Ochieng O'Brien claimed that their polls were supposed to take place at Migori Stadium, but the venue had been booked for another meeting. ''We strive for peace at all times. We don't want anyone bringing fracas," O'Brien said. In Suna West sub-County, voters were thrown into confusion after it was announced that voting would not take place in the area. In Vihiga County, the party conducted its grassroots elections across all 25 wards. Leading the exercise was Caroline Angote, the county elections coordinator. "We made thorough preparations to facilitate a smooth and credible process," she said. Among those elected was Ben Ingolo, who emerged as the secretary-general for North East Bunyore Ward. Speaking after his win, Ingolo expressed optimism and commitment to the party's growth. "I am glad to have won, and as a team, we will embark on making the party more popular than ever before," he stated. Deputy Party Leader and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi had earlier emphasised the importance of unity and focus within the party ranks. "I emphasised the importance of unity and collaboration to ensure the party's growth and success in the region," said Osotsi. Osotsi also warned against interference by external forces, asserting that ODM's internal processes must be respected. "This is a party with a long history in politics after taking part in the last four general elections, and we must at all costs protect its dominance in Vihiga and Western Kenya," he added.

Bloodshed, confusion mar ODM elections in Nyanza and Western

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