[ODM leader Raila Odinga in a past event. Nyanza ODM gubernatorial aspirants could use consensus instead of nominations that are due in April. Photo/nation.co.ke]
Opposition leader Raila Odinga is reportedly examining an alternative to nominations for governorship aspirants in ODM strongholds.
The Orange party is predominantly popular in former Nyanza province, his traditional turf, and sources say he is worried that party primaries could be chaotic.
Most counties from Nyanza are set to hold primaries in mid- April and Mr. Odinga is reportedly keen to minimize squabbles by using consensus.
“He (Odinga) is not of the opinion that gubernatorial aspirants in ODM turfs g for nominations. This according to him could be chaotic and out of control,” said the source privy to ongoing discussions in the Orange house.
“They could sit down and come up with an accepted candidate. He does not want infightings that could negatively impact on his campaigns,” added the source.
Should he succeed, the region may avoid fiery political battles that are being experienced in Kisumu, Siaya, and Homabay and Migori counties.
Among top politicians who could give Odinga headache in gubernatorial contest are James Orengo (Siaya) and Peter Nyong’o (Kisumu) both who have since abandoned their senatorial bid.
Homabay Women Representative Gladys Wanga supports the move saying it would help ODM to focus on presidential seat.
“Consensus is mandatory because we want to avoid fiery exchanges and campaigns. Hopefully those involved will agree,” she said on Wednesday.