

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has declared its recently concluded county delegates’ elections a success, describing the nationwide exercise as peaceful, democratic, and a significant step in reorganising the party's internal leadership.
In a statement issued Thursday after a meeting of the party’s Central Committee, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna said that while most counties conducted the elections smoothly, the party postponed elections in six counties due to pending appeals, and scheduled repeat polls in Busia and Kakamega following disruptions.
“The elections were conducted peacefully and democratically across the country, save for the six counties under appeal and the specific cases of Busia and Kakamega, where repeat elections will take place on August 29 and September 1, respectively,” Sifuna said.
The internal elections, which began on Monday, are part of ODM's broader strategy to strengthen its grassroots structures ahead of a planned National Delegates Conference (NDC).
The process involved elections at sub-branch (ward) and branch (constituency) levels, aimed at reinforcing the party’s organisational base as it prepares for political realignments and the 2027 General Election.
In Kakamega County, the elections were suspended after disagreements arose between rival camps over the preferred voting method.
The contest is between supporters of Governor Fernandes Barasa and those allied to Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera, both seeking the position of ODM County Chairperson.
Barasa’s camp supported the mlolongo (queue voting) system, arguing it provides speed and simplicity, while Nabwera’s side called for a secret ballot, citing fairness and transparency.
The dispute at the Bishop Nicholas Stam Pastoral Centre, the designated polling venue along the Kakamega-Webuye Road, prompted Presiding Officer Simbauni Ndombi to suspend the exercise to prevent further escalation.
The Central Committee stressed the need for discipline and decorum throughout the electoral process, particularly in the counties where elections were postponed.