ERIC JUMA
A group of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) aspirants in Bondo Constituency have protested against what they describe as attempts to sideline them from party activities, accusing incumbent MP Dr Gideon Ochanda.
The aspirants also accused a section of the party’s lawmakers of creating an uneven political environment ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The aspirants, led by John Mwai Andiwo, who is seeking to unseat Ochanda in the parliamentary race, have questioned the involvement of a faction of ODM MPs in the purported inspection of constituency development projects alongside individuals who have recently joined the party.
They argue that such activities risk being turned into political platforms for promoting certain individuals and factions while locking out other aspirants seeking elective positions on the ODM ticket.
In a protest statement, the group expressed concern over what they termed the misuse of parliamentary influence to advance factional interests, warning that constituency oversight activities should not be confused with party political engagements.
The aspirants insisted that parliamentary responsibilities and internal party affairs must remain separate to guarantee fairness and equal opportunities for all candidates.
“Parliamentary activities must not be used to advance factional political interests, intimidate aspirants or create an unfair political environment within the party,” they said.
They further challenged the ODM leadership to intervene and ensure that all aspirants are treated equally and given opportunities to participate in political engagements and party activities across the constituency.
The group also called for an end to what they described as intimidation, coercion and political manipulation by party officials and individuals they claim have no legitimate authority within the movement.
The dispute comes as political competition begins taking shape in Bondo, a constituency closely associated with the late former Prime Minister and ODM leader Raila Odinga, as prospective candidates position themselves ahead of the next General Election.
The aspirants expressed concern that the participation of individuals who have recently defected to ODM should not undermine the interests of longstanding party members or those who have already declared their intention to contest elective positions.
They maintained that every aspirant has an equal right to interact with party members and constituents without interference or restrictions imposed by influential political figures.
The group warned against attempts by individuals or factions to monopolise party activities, saying such practices could undermine the democratic principles upon which ODM was founded.
“ODM is a democratic political movement, not the preserve of a few individuals or factions. No one should be allowed to monopolise party activities, dictate political participation or use parliamentary influence to intimidate fellow members and aspirants,” the statement reads.
Despite their grievances, the aspirants reaffirmed their commitment to the party, insisting that their protest was aimed at defending internal democracy and ensuring that all members enjoy equal treatment.
They said their continued loyalty to ODM should not be interpreted as willingness to tolerate exclusion or the abuse of political authority.
The group wants the party leadership to establish a fair and transparent framework for managing political activities in Bondo and ensure that all aspirants have an equal opportunity to engage constituents as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.
“However, our loyalty to the party must not be mistaken for silence in the face of unfairness, exclusion or abuse of political authority,” they warned.
