ODM Faces Internal Disputes After Contested Grassroots Elections in Western Kenya

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is facing internal disputes in Western Kenya following disputed grassroots elections in Kakamega, Busia, and Homa Bay counties, where local leaders have rejected the outcomes and questioned the integrity of the process.

In Kakamega, tensions escalated after Governor Fernandes Barasa was declared the new county chairperson under contested circumstances. His appointment followed a walkout by Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera and ten other ODM legislators, who objected to the voting procedure at Iguhu Medical Training College. The group demanded a secret ballot, alleging that county government employees posed as party delegates—raising concerns about transparency and interference.

In Busia, a similar standoff has emerged. Governor Paul Otuoma was named branch chair despite an earlier postponement of the elections. Matayos MP Geoffrey Odanga and Teso North MP Oku Kaunya have disputed the announcement, with Mr Odanga insisting that no vote took place and continuing to assert his claim to the position. 

Homa Bay has also seen internal friction following the party’s announcement of Nicholas Owaka, a sitting Member of County Assembly, as the new Ndhiwa Constituency chairperson. A rival group, led by former officials, has rejected the results, alleging that those declared winners are closely aligned with the county administration. They argue that the elections were compromised by undue influence from government-linked figures.

These disputes have created openings for emerging political parties in the region, some of which are appealing to dissatisfied ODM members with promises of more transparent processes and increased grassroots participation. With the 2027 general elections approaching, the growing divisions within ODM threaten its long-standing dominance in the region and could shift the political balance.