By OTIENO OWIDA and BENEDICT TIROP newsdesk@ke.nationmedia.com
Posted Tuesday, May 24 2011 at 20:47
Posted Tuesday, May 24 2011 at 20:47
Six constituencies in Homa Bay County are abuzz with political activity ahead of ODM grassroots elections slated for next month.
In what looks like campaigns for parliamentary and civic elections, aspirants are holding meetings, some secretly to strategise over the elections.
The grassroots elections were initially to be held this Friday but have since been postponed to run between June 3 and 6. (READ: ODM puts off grassroots polls)
Those interested in various parliamentary, senatorial and governorship posts for next year’s general elections are also using the campaigns to have their allies elected.
To the sitting MPs, party elections are an acid test for their survival and 2012 re-election.
According to the revised ODM constitution, party branches now at county levels are mandated to vet candidates aspiring for various seats and issue certificates to those who win the nominations.
The constitution further emphasises that in case of nomination disputes, the branch will have a final say in resolving such matters.
ODM Homa Bay County elections co-ordinator Tom Okong’o said his office will ensure the elections are free and fair.
“I will meet party chairmen from all six constituencies before Friday to agree on policies that will ensure transparency in the elections,” said Okong’o.
Meanwhile ODM officials from Bomet and Kericho counties yesterday chose election officials for to oversee the grassroots contest.
In Kericho County, those chosen included former Belgut MP Charles Kirui, who was picked as the party’s returning officer and Mr Christopher Sitienei made the county co-ordinator.
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