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 Emily Awitta, Chairperson of the National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC), said the disruption was caused by one of the aspirants who allegedly stormed the election materials distribution centre, accompanied by a group of goons.
“This has been occasioned by the violent invasion of the election materials’ distribution centre by one of the aspirants who is alleged to have arrived with goons and started threatening the Returning Officer and other officials,” Awitta stated.
The party further disclosed that the arrival of a senior politician from Homa Bay, who is not a candidate in the primaries, created additional confusion and contributed to unnecessary delays.
The nomination exercise had been scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m., but by mid-morning, the process had not kicked off.
ODM described the incident as “barbaric and egregious,” particularly given that all aspirants had committed to peaceful conduct in a meeting convened in Nairobi on September 16, 2025.
“This incident is not only barbaric but also egregious, considering the commitment that the aspirants participating in the nomination exercise agreed to adhere to,” Awitta emphasized.
ODM warned that stern disciplinary action would be taken against any aspirant found guilty of disrupting the process, including possible disqualification.
“This should be a warning to any candidate who is hell-bent on disrupting the exercise… stern disciplinary action will be taken against them,” the party warned.
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.
ODM insisted it remains committed to free, fair, and transparent primaries across the country.
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.
