Busia: A section of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders have disputed the party's County Delegates elections held at Budokomi cereal stores on Friday. Led by the immediate former Party Chairman Geoffrey Odanga, the leaders claimed that the elections were marred by chaos after goons allied to Busia Governor Paul Otuoma disrupted the entire process.
According to Kenya News Agency, Odanga alleged that individuals not recognized as bonafide delegates arrived at the polling station wearing T-shirts branded with Otuoma's name. Odanga emphasized that Otuoma is not a registered delegate. He further added that genuine delegates reported to the polling center peacefully, intending to cast their votes. However, another group from the County Assembly, allegedly affiliated with the governor, took control of the election register, even though there were officials designated for that task.
Materials for registration, particularly the voter register, were reportedly snatched from the returning officer, and fake lists were allegedly used instead, Odanga claimed. Meanwhile, Teso North Member of Parliament Oku Kaunya stated that delegates from his constituency were locked out. He reported chaos that resulted in injuries to the County election chairman and other officials, who were subsequently taken to the hospital for treatment. Kaunya has urged the ODM National Elections Board to organize fresh elections and take action against those responsible for hiring goons.
Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, who claimed victory in the elections, emphasized the need for a leader who will unite party members. Otuoma stated, "For those who have been given the mandate, let's bring other people on board because ODM is family. I am going to work for all the members of the ODM, and we are going to defend this territory to be a 100% ODM zone."
Otuoma also suggested that the outgoing chairperson, Geoffrey Odanga, had ample time to contribute to the party and should now support others. He said, "The former chairperson has had more than 10 years of chairmanship; what does he need to prove? Where is the problem if members say that they need another person? If he gets an ODM ticket, I will support him so that we ensure the party secures all the seats in the county."
Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanya called on all those competing for positions to join the declared team to strengthen the party. "We are urging those who want to be leaders to join them and move the agenda of the party ahead and ensure its stability. This team is an able one, and I have trust in them that they will make our party greater in our county," she said.
Funyula MP Wilberforce Mudenyo appealed to the governor to advocate for the needs of the people of Busia within the party. "People of Busia County are looking up to you to champion for their needs in the party. Let our people get their portion in the party through your leadership. We want those who have been serving to support this team as their leaders as we move forward," he stated.