By Faith Anene, Kakamega
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Youth League in Kakamega County, led by Chairperson Ernest Keya, has called on political leaders to uphold unity and mutual respect during presidential visits, warning that public showdowns and divisions only undermine development.
Addressing the media in Kakamega during a press briefing, the youth leaders urged politicians to rally behind Governor Fernandes Barasa’s leadership, cautioning that public wrangles and personal rivalries risk derailing progress.
“This is not the time for unnecessary political bickering or division,” read part of a statement released after the meeting. “It is a time for unity of purpose and collective effort in building a prosperous Kakamega. When leaders stand together and put the interests of the people first, progress becomes inevitable.”
The statement, issued after ODM Youth League deliberations, condemned what it termed a “growing trend where certain leaders choose to undermine and embarrass their colleagues during presidential visits.” The youth described such conduct as disrespectful to the spirit of leadership and an embarrassment to the people of Kakamega before the Head of State.
They reaffirmed their full support for Governor Barasa, who also serves as ODM Chairperson in Kakamega County, saying they back his six-point development agenda and his commitment to improving service delivery.
The youth league also endorsed the ODM Central Management Committee’s decision to continue working within the Broad-Based Government framework championed by President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, emphasizing collaboration between the two sides.
Additionally, the group announced its support for ODM’s David Ndakwa in the upcoming Malava Constituency by-election set for November 27, 2025.
The youth leaders further encouraged young people across the county to take part in the ongoing nationwide voter registration exercise. “We urge all young people to register as voters in large numbers to have a say in shaping the future of our county,” the statement added.
