Political Unity and Campaign Efforts in Ugunja
In a rare display of political unity, leaders from across Kenya gathered in Ugunja to support ODM candidate Moses Omondi ahead of the upcoming by-election. This event highlighted the collective effort to ensure that Omondi secures a seat in the parliament, with various high-profile figures lending their voices to the cause.
Key Figures Supporting Omondi
Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi led the campaign, urging residents to turn out in large numbers on November 27 to vote for Omondi. He emphasized that Omondi is the right choice to advance ODM’s development agenda in the constituency. “We have come here to support our mothers and to stand in solidarity with the Ugunja people. On the 27th, Moses will be your next MP,” Wandayi stated.
Wandayi also mentioned the importance of ODM’s unity as outsiders attempt to sow division in Nyanza. His message was clear: the party must remain strong and united to achieve its goals.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah praised ODM for maintaining internal democracy and pledged to work with Omondi once elected. During the event, he lifted Omondi’s hand before a cheering crowd, saying, “When this young man becomes MP, just like we’ve worked with Opiyo Wandayi, I will guide him on how to bring resources to Ugunja for roads, markets, women and youth projects.”
Ichung’wah further encouraged the crowd to come out in large numbers and vote for Omondi, stating, “Let’s show that Nyanza stands strong and united.”
Diverse Voices in the Campaign
Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot emphasized that political differences should not hinder development. He humorously remarked, “Chama ni ODM, Rais ni Ruto, na chama ni two-term,” drawing laughter and applause from the audience.
Cheruiyot compared himself to Omondi, stating, “Moses [Omondi] and I are like brothers just like in the Bible. On the 27th, come out and vote for Moses so [Omondi] that we can work with him in Parliament. Luo Nyanza will not be left behind again. Let’s develop Ugunja.”
Belgut MP Nelson Koech described Omondi as a young and visionary leader, while Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo said the by-election is an opportunity to reaffirm the region’s loyalty to the party. She urged the crowd, “Vote for Moses. Don’t let Baba’s people down.”
Support from Other Leaders
Ugenya MP David Ochieng, whose Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG) party opted not to field a candidate, explained that the decision was a sign of goodwill and cooperation with Wandayi. “We will do a crash programme for Moses. We have not fielded any candidate because of our strong working relationship with Wandayi,” he said.
Siaya Governor James Orengo, who also endorsed Omondi’s candidacy, promised to campaign for him in the remaining period. “I had not come to campaign for Omondi before and now I will walk with him through this journey,” he added.
The Candidates in the By-Election
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has cleared 11 candidates to vie for the Ugunja parliamentary seat in the upcoming by-election. These include:
- Benson Obol Otieno (United Green Movement Party)
- Eric Ofiro (Jubilee Party)
- Vincent Olengo (Kenya Moja)
- Fredrick Ochiel (United Democratic Movement)
- Oliver Ochieng (National Liberal Party)
- Lilian Akinyi (National Alliance Party)
- Moses Omondi (ODM)
- Orodi Odhiambo (Wiper)
- Maurice Okumu (Liberal Party of Kenya)
- Chrispine Budo (Kanu)
Commitment to Peaceful Campaigning
The leaders vowed to ensure a peaceful and issue-based campaign, emphasizing that Ugunja deserves continuity and development under ODM’s leadership. Their unified approach reflects a shared vision for the future of the constituency and highlights the importance of collaboration in achieving common goals.