By Faith Anene, Kakamega
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has been declared the new Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Chairperson for Kakamega County following elections conducted at Iguhu KMTC in Ikolomani under the supervision of officials from the party headquarters.
The exercise was overseen by Returning Officer Felix Ngala, who, together with other Orange House officials, expressed satisfaction with the process. Ngala congratulated Governor Barasa on his victory and urged any aggrieved parties to pursue formal appeals within twelve hours instead of resorting to hostility.
“Those dissatisfied with the outcome have an avenue for appeal. We call for calm and respect for party procedures,” Ngala said.
The election, however, was marred by controversy after Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera, Barasa’s main challenger, stormed out of the venue with his supporters. Nabwera’s camp questioned the credibility of the system adopted by delegates, which relied on hand gestures to determine the outcome.
In his acceptance speech, Barasa praised the election as a success and pledged to strengthen ODM in Kakamega ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
“We will ensure the party remains strong, visible, and well-organized across the county. Our focus is to deliver victory for ODM in 2027,” Barasa said.
But in a dramatic twist, Nabwera later declared himself the rightful ODM Chairperson for Kakamega, despite lacking recognition or supervision from party officials.
