Leaders of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in Kisumu County have directed county chairman Paul Otieno Akeyo to remain in office until the party leader, Oburu Oginga, announces a new date for the postponed county elections.
Speaking during a delegates’ meeting on Friday at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, senior ODM legislators pledged to safeguard party unity and stability, declaring their unwavering loyalty to the party leadership.
Among those present were Kisumu County Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, Nyando MP Jared Okello, Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron, and Muhoroni MP James Onyango K’Oyoo. The leaders spoke in one voice, vowing to “protect ODM with all their strength” and maintain peace across the region.
Ms. Ruth described ODM as an irreplaceable political vehicle for the region, insisting that leaders would not abandon the party.
“ODM is our house and our business. Our party leader has said he wants peace in Kisumu, especially during party elections. We must protect this party. It is the greatest political party in Africa and the one that gives us the power we seek,” she said.
She urged leaders across Nyanza to prioritize unity and calm, stressing that Mr. Akeyo remains the legitimate county chairman until a National Delegates Convention (NDC) is convened. She also pledged to support any candidate running on the ODM ticket, underscoring loyalty to the party founded by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
“I will only support peace and unity within the party and any candidate vying on the ODM ticket. We stand firmly behind Dr. Oburu Oginga and Chairman Akeyo,” she added.
The leaders further thanked the party chief for suspending the county elections that had been scheduled for the previous week, citing rising tensions. They emphasized that peace would take precedence over internal competition to prevent divisions and ensure ODM remains cohesive and formidable.
Party officials indicated that a new election timetable will be announced once consultations are complete.
