By Daniel Otieno, Kakamega
Busia Governor Paul Otuoma has praised his Kakamega counterpart, Fernandes Barasa, for his steadfast efforts in revitalizing the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party in Kakamega County, hailing him as a model of grassroots mobilization and party loyalty.
Speaking during an ODM delegates’ meeting commemorating 20 years since the party’s formation, Governor Otuoma commended Barasa’s commitment to growing ODM’s support base through consistent membership registration drives and the establishment of structured local party offices.
“Busia may be the stronghold of ODM, but Barasa is redefining political engagement by going deeper into the grassroots and involving the public meaningfully,” said Otuoma. He described Kakamega’s rising political organization under Barasa as an example for other ODM governors to emulate.
ODM party leader Raila Odinga echoed Otuoma’s sentiments, reaffirming Barasa’s key role in maintaining ODM dominance in Kakamega amid increasing political competition and internal dissent.
“I’ve heard all manner of stories about Barasa, but I want to say clearly that I appreciate the work he is doing for the party,” said Raila. “I’ve even spoken to the Women Representative, Mama Elsie, and asked her to allow Barasa to complete his term in peace. When the time for campaigns comes, they will meet on the ground.”
Raila dismissed what he termed as “dirty politics” being directed at Barasa, urging ODM members to remain focused on development and party unity.
Lurambi MP Titus Khamala also applauded Barasa’s political strategy, observing that while new parties like the Democratic Congress Party (DCP) are trying to gain traction in the Western region, Barasa has managed to secure Kakamega as a strong ODM base.
“New parties may be coming up, but Barasa has already locked Kakamega for ODM,” said Khamala.
Deputy Governor Ayub Savula emphasized that Barasa has set his sights on ensuring ODM sweeps all elective seats in Kakamega in the next election cycle. “In the last election, ODM got MCA 44 seats in Kakamega. Barasa is working to ensure that next time, all positions go to ODM candidates,” said Savula.
He accused some ODM-elected leaders in Kakamega of failing to support the party’s activities and instead inciting the public against the county government. “Barasa has done what other politicians elected on an ODM ticket have failed to do. That’s why they don’t attend ODM meetings, yet they stir political waters,” he added.
