Political tensions in Homa Bay are rising as the Kasipul by-election exposes divisions among local leaders.
Odoyo Owidi, former chair of the Lake Victoria Basin Board and a Homa Bay politician, has publicly questioned Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga’s campaign methods, suggesting her influence in the county may be overstated.
Owidi highlighted on Facebook that Wanga has relied heavily on mobilizing paid supporters to attend events and pressuring county assembly members and staff to publicly endorse her candidate.
Despite these efforts, the ODM candidate, who secured 90% of votes in the party’s nominations, appears to be struggling to connect with Kasipul residents.
According to Owidi, the candidate has become closely associated with Wanga personally rather than being seen as a representative of ODM.
He noted that local leaders in Kasipul have not publicly supported the candidate, leaving much of the campaigning to county officials.
“No leaders from Kasipul support the candidate except those working in the county. They are pretending though,” Owidi said.
Owidi also referenced an incident involving the family of Bruno, a man allegedly killed by associates linked to the candidate.
A government official reportedly delivered Ksh 300,000 to the family as compensation, which was declined, reflecting lingering local mistrust and tensions.
The Kasipul by-election is ongoing, with county assembly members campaigning in rotation until the 27th.
Owidi suggested that the election results might prompt a reevaluation of key political figures in the county, warning that the governor’s backing may have reduced the government’s popularity compared to levels under Interior CS Dr. Raymond Omolo.