[President Uhuru Kenyatta in a past campaign rally in Kisii. He could reap big following controversy surrounding ODM nominations in Nyanza. Photo/Nation]
The ongoing ODM party primaries across the country could cost opposition leader Raila Odinga following ‘strange’ results that have been marred with controversy.
Odinga, who has remained silent throughout the exercise, could have been outsmarted by President Uhuru Kenyatta who solved a serious debacle that had surrounded Jubilee nominations that have turned out to be peaceful.
Uhuru Tena slogans filled the air in Kisumu after Kisumu Central MP Ken Obura reportedly kidnapped a Returning Officer and forced him to announce him a winner despite provisional results showing that he had lost.
“The people are clear that No Ouda, No ODM. There is a cartel in ODM who is destroying the party and could cost Raila Odinga,” said Fred Ouda, who reportedly beat Obura.
And in Siaya, despite Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda beating Odinga’s elder brother Oburu Oginga, the results are said to have been overturned in favour of Mr. Oginga.
“The people spoke and their voice must be respected. I am keeping cool to hear what the party would say,” Ochanda said.
But in Homabay, angry protestors early this week threatened to back Mr. Kenyatta should ODM fail to award Kabondo Kaspul MP Oyugi Magwanga governorship ticket after he reportedly beat incumbent Cyprian Awiti who was declared outright winner.
Similar controversies were seen in Nyamira, Coastal region, Migori and Siaya counties where members accused the party of shortchanging them.