Nasa presidential candidate Raila Odinga. [Photo/capitalfm.co.ke]

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Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) supporters in Nyanza region are accusing Raila Odinga of supporting cartels who “messed up” the party nominations, giving birth to independent candidates.

The independents have dismissed Raila’s call for voters to vote for only ODM candidates.

Speaking during the burial of the mother of former Ombudsman Otiende Amolo on Saturday, the Nasa presidential candidate told Nyanza residents that voting for ODM candidates would strengthen the party.

The former Prime Minister said that the independent candidates failed in the nominations and should accept the will of the people.

However, in their defense, the independents and some residents said the shambolic primaries pushed some aspirants to go solo.

The Nyanza independents are now accusing Raila of supporting the cartels that bungled the primaries.

"I have over half of Mbita voters supporting my bid and they were infuriated by the bungled primaries, which denied me the party ticket," said Mbita MP aspirant Gym Akali Agembe.

Agembe urged the ODM leader to embrace inclusivity to avoid voter apathy come August 8.

"I am appealing to Raila to let Nyanza residents elect leaders of their own choice. His presidential bid is more important than who wins the other seats," said Kasipul aspirant Isaac Ongiri.

Luo Council of Elders secretary in Homa Bay County Joram Okola said Raila should have instead apologised to area voters for irregularities in ODM nominations.