The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party primaries in Kasipul Constituency were on Wednesday delayed following chaotic scenes that disrupted the planned start of the nomination exercise.
According to a statement from the party, the distribution of election materials was violently interrupted when one of the aspirants, Mr. Newton Ogada, allegedly stormed the centre accompanied by goons who threatened the Returning Officer and other election officials.
The situation was further worsened by the arrival of Homa Bay Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga, who is not a candidate in the primaries, but whose presence caused unnecessary disruption.
The nomination exercise, which was scheduled to begin at 8:00 am, was halted until calm could be restored.
ODM condemned the incident, terming it unacceptable.
“This incident is not only barbaric but also egregious considering the commitment that the aspirants participating in the nomination exercise agreed to adhere to during a meeting held in Nairobi last Tuesday,” said Hon. Emily Awitta, Chairperson of the National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC).
She added that the party will take stern disciplinary action, including possible disqualification, against any aspirant found to have disrupted the process or issued threats to election officials.
Despite the delay, the party assured its members and supporters in Kasipul that the primaries would proceed peacefully before the close of business at 5:00 pm.
The Kasipul parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of MP Ong’ondo Were. Aspirants vying for the ODM ticket include George Otieno, Boyd Were Ong’ondo, Dr. Adel Ottoman, Daniel Okindo Majiwa, and Newton Ogada.
The winner of the ODM primaries will face other candidates in the November 27 by-election, including independent candidate Philip Aroko, who is widely considered the strongest challenger in the race.
