ODM warns Governor Barasa against disparaging party organs
Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa. Photo/Fernandes Barasa via X
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has warned Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa against making any disparaging remarks against party organs even as he prepares to appear before its Central Committee following a leadership crisis in his county.
The crisis, which involves friction between the County Assembly and the former Majority Leader John Maina, has prompted the party's intervention to resolve the matter.
In a statement issued by the ODM Deputy Party Leader, Senator Godfrey Osotsi (Vihiga), the party highlighted its concerns regarding the failure by Governor Barasa to implement recommendations related to the leadership of the County Assembly.
The Central Committee convened on September 11, 2024, to discuss the issue, specifically emphasizing the need for the Governor, Speaker of the Assembly, and the former Majority Leader to address the problem.
“It was a resolution of the committee that the County Governor, Speaker of the Assembly, and the former Majority Leader must immediately cease frustrating members of the Assembly and implement the recommendations of the party on the leadership question,” Senator Osotsi said on Monday.
Mr Osotsi further condemned what he described as unwarranted attacks on ODM officials by Governor Barasa and his allies, which allegedly took place during funerals and other public gatherings.
According to the party, these actions undermine the authority of the Central Committee and violate party discipline.
“All members of the party are expected to show respect for Party Organs and abide by their decisions and desist from disparaging the Party Organs and especially one as high up in ranks as the Central Committee, which is chaired by none other than the Party Leader Raila Odinga,” the Vihiga Senator added.
Governor Barasa has been invited to defend himself before the same committee he is accused of undermining.
ODM has expressed its hope that the Governor will use this opportunity to offer his version of circumstances and resolve the matter internally.
“My advice to the Governor is that he ceases and desists from this unbecoming behaviour and awaits his date with the committee where he will be offered an opportunity to give his version,” Senator Osotsi stated.
As the ODM Central Committee continues to engage with the Kakamega County leadership, it remains to be seen how the Governor will respond to the party's call for unity and discipline.
