ODM leader Oburu Oginga and Ugunja MP aspirant Moses Omondi in Siaya county /FAITH MATETE
A rare show of political unity played out in Ugunja as leaders
from across Kenya joined hands to campaign for ODM candidate Moses Omondi ahead
of this month’s by-election.
Led by Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi, the leaders urged residents to
turn out in large numbers on November 27 and vote for Omondi.
They said he 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 said.
He said ODM’s unity is crucial as outsiders are attempting to
sow division in Nyanza.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah praised ODM
for maintaining internal democracy and pledged to work with Omondi once
elected.
While lifting Omondi’s hand before a cheering crowd, Ichung’wah
said, “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.”
“I respectfully ask you
to come out in large numbers and vote for him to show that Nyanza stands strong
and united,” Ichung’wa said.
Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot said political differences
should not hinder development.
“Chama ni ODM, Rais ni Ruto, na chama ni two-term,” he said,
drawing laughter and applause.
“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.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo said the by-election is an
opportunity to reaffirm the region’s loyalty to the party.
“Vote for Moses. Don’t let Baba’s people down,” she told the
crowd.
Ugenya MP David Ochieng, whose Movement for Democracy and Growth
(MDG) party opted not to field a candidate, said 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
candidature said he will 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”.
Currently, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission
has cleared 11 candidates to vie for the Ugunja parliamentary seat in the
upcoming by-election.
The candidates 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), and Chrispine Budo (Kanu).
The leaders vowed to ensure a peaceful and issue-based campaign,
emphasising that Ugunja deserves continuity and development under ODM’s
leadership.
