ODM issues ultimatum to Kakamega Governor over party directives
Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa. Photo/Fernandes Barasa via X
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has issued a stern warning to Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, threatening disciplinary action if he fails to comply with specific party instructions aimed at restoring order in the county.
This warning was voiced by ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi, who on Saturday criticised the governor for not implementing the directives given to him two(2) weeks ago during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
The NEC meeting had been called to address internal tensions in Kakamega County, and Governor Barasa, along with other county leaders, was tasked with resolving issues causing disunity within the party.
Among the directives was the reinstatement of Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) who had been removed from committee positions, as well as ensuring collaboration among ODM leaders in the region.
Osotsi noted that the two-week deadline for these actions expired on Saturday, adding that Barasa has only until Monday to present a valid explanation for the delay.
"The Governor knows exactly what needs to be done,” Osotsi said, emphasising the urgency. “The two weeks have ended today. Let’s consider Saturday and Sunday as extra time, but by Monday, we’ll know if they failed to follow the instructions given.”
Key among the ODM’s demands was for Barasa to foster respect for ODM leaders, particularly those within Kakamega, and restore MCAs to their committee roles. Osotsi also insisted that all court cases involving the county assembly be dropped, allowing for smoother cooperation among leaders.
Joining the calls for action, Kakamega Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda highlighted the continued frustrations of the MCAs, warning that unresolved tensions could result in the party splitting into factions.
“If Kakamega remains in this state, we risk creating divisions within ODM,” she said, cautioning against an "ODM A" and "ODM B" split.
Siaya Governor James Orengo also urged Mr Barasa to recognise and respect veteran ODM leaders, specifically Wycliffe Oparanya, the former Kakamega governor.
Governor Orengo noted Oparanya's significant contributions to both the county and the nation, calling disrespect toward him a major concern.
The ODM leadership has made it clear that the county officials’ cooperation is essential to restoring harmony within the party in Kakamega.
With Monday as the final deadline, Mr Barasa faces possible disciplinary consequences if he does not comply, underscoring ODM’s determination to uphold unity and leadership strength in the county.
