Opposition leader Raila Odinga is set for more surprises and disappointments in the approaching 2022 general elections in his Luo Nyanza backyard.
The former Prime Minister’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party only recently survived an onslaught in the concluded Migori senatorial race, which it narrowly won through former Cabinet Minister Ochillo Ayacko.
In an apparent decline of influence in the region, Raila could be subjected to more disappointments in the forthcoming polls, and could see some of the seats currently under his party lost to rebellious former allies.
Here are some of the rebels who will give Raila a hard time.
1. David Ochieng’ Ouma
The former Ugenya parliamentarian ditched the Orange party in the run-up to the concluded 2017 general elections, defecting to the Movement of Democracy and Growth (MDG).
He cited harassment within the party, lamenting that some party insiders had branded him a mole for the ruling and rival Jubilee Party, with the aim of sabotaging his political movements.
He has since won a petition against ODM’s Odhiambo Karan who went ahead to win on the ODM ticket, and is also one of the leaders who could successfully challenge ODM’s influence in the region.
2. Oyugi Magwanga
The Former Kasipul Kabondo legislator unsuccessfully fought for the ODM ticket for the Homa Bay gubernatorial seat in the concluded poll, again losing to Governor Cyprian Awiti of ODM as an independent candidate in the main election.
The ex-Homa Bay ODM branch Chairman has also since fallen out with the party, and is likely to come back stronger in 2022, as Awiti who is on his second and final term will be exiting the office.
3. Nicholas Gumbo
The Ex-Rarieda lawmaker is also a rebel member of the Orange party who unsuccessfully vied for the Siaya gubernatorial seat in the previous election.
Having appeared second, the experienced politician could have it easier clinching the seat at a time when Governor Cornel Rasanga will be heading home.
He is, however, set for an uphill task against area Senator James Orengo, who is also likely to take a shot at the top post in the same race.
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