Odoyo Owidi
Former Nyakach MP Odoyo Owidi has raised concerns over the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) zoning approach, saying it could affect the party’s competitiveness in the 2027 General Election.
In a statement titled “GROUND TRUTH,” Owidi argued that ODM should reassess its nomination and zoning framework, particularly in regions he described as highly competitive, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru and parts of Western Kenya.
He said that in such areas, allowing broader competition during party nominations would strengthen ODM’s chances against rival parties, including the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
He cautioned that limiting contests could weaken the party’s appeal in closely contested constituencies.
“If ODM is genuinely committed to securing a significant number of MPs in the 2027 elections, they must negotiate for zoning in regions where they face strong competition,” he stated.
Owidi, however, drew a distinction with Luo Nyanza, where ODM remains dominant, saying internal competition in the region would improve voter participation and engagement within the party.
He also questioned the impact of zoning on party democracy, arguing that it could entrench incumbents and reduce fairness in the nomination process.
According to him, such arrangements may also influence the outcome of party tickets in favour of politically connected individuals.
“Without this, the current zoning strategy appears to be a self-serving attempt to ensure weak incumbent ODM leaders are re-elected with minimal opposition or to ensure the easy election of loyal relatives and allies of ODM leaders,” he stated.
Owidi further alleged that zoning discussions within the party extend beyond elective positions to include government appointments.
He referenced ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga, claiming she has advocated for broader influence over both party nominations and public sector positions.
“For over 30 years, zoning has been practiced in Luoland for both elective and appointive positions. Once elections are concluded and ODM, or any dominant party in the region, loses, they typically rejoin the government,” he said.
He also pointed to what he described as long-standing zoning practices in parts of Luo Nyanza, saying they have shaped both political and administrative decisions over time.
Owidi said such practices raise constitutional concerns, citing Article 27 on equality and non-discrimination, and urged accountability in party processes.
“This practice represents one of the most egregious forms of apartheid ever experienced in Africa,” he stated.
He also commented on recent ODM Central Management Committee resolutions, suggesting they closely reflected earlier public statements attributed to Wanga.
“The resolutions read out to the media by the ODM Central Management Committee were largely a repetition of Gladys Wanga’s speech delivered two days earlier,” he said.
The remarks come as ODM continues internal discussions on its election preparedness, including nomination procedures and regional political arrangements ahead of 2027.