ODM grassroots elections will be free and fair – official

ODM Siaya County Secretary Wilson Ouma Onyango has assured party members that the much awaited party grassroots elections will be free and fair.

Onyango, who is the Siaya deputy governor, has refuted claims of an existing list of preferred candidates ahead of the forthcoming party elections, terming the allegations propaganda from their opponents.

The deputy governor also stated that the party intends to use the September grassroots polls to rectify the mistakes of the 2013 ODM preliminary nominations that made some of their members move to other parties.

He further issued stern warning to those seeking party positions to desist from such acts which he says are against the set rules and regulations of the party, adding that it could lead heavy penalties or instant dismissal.

“ODM seeks to use these elections to make it a transparent and an accommodating party, and minimize problems in the coming General Election,” he said.

Ouma was reacting to allegations made by a group of Siaya ODM members who accused top officials of the party of having preferred candidates who will only be awaiting approval when grassroots elections are conducted.
The ODM secretary said the party has launched official investigations in the matter and ensure all the persons involved in formulating the list are disciplined.

The party’s grassroots elections for Siaya County are set to take place from September 30 to October 3, 2015.

By Reuben Wanyama