ODM Postpones Busia County Delegates Elections Amid Internal Realignments

ODM, led by Raila Odinga, has built its reputation on being a grassroots-driven movement, often relying heavily on internal elections to build legitimacy and reinforce democratic ideals within its structures. However, these exercises have historically been marred by delays, disputes, and logistical challenges. The Busia postponement appears to continue this trend, rekindling memories of past frustrations where disagreements over party lists, delegate eligibility, and claims of favoritism disrupted similar processes.

 In this case, while Awita’s statement avoided going into detail on the reasons behind the postponement, insiders suggest that factional competition and unresolved disputes within the county could have influenced the decision. Busia has long been a politically active county with strong ODM support, but it is also one where competing local leaders are keen to assert dominance, and this has often translated into tense internal contests during party exercises.

 ODM had only just energized its support base by unveiling the national calendar for county delegate elections, presenting the exercise as proof of its commitment to grassroots democracy and organizational renewal. By excluding Nairobi, Migori, Homa Bay, and Kisumu from the August 25 exercise, the party signaled a cautious approach in areas where the stakes are higher and divisions could undermine unity. 

The implications of this decision stretch beyond Busia County. ODM is in a delicate phase where its credibility as a democratic institution is being tested, not just by its members but also by the broader Kenyan political landscape. With Raila Odinga having transitioned into a more continental role following his endorsement as Africa Union Commission chair nominee, the party is under pressure to demonstrate that it can operate cohesively without his constant direct oversight. The Busia postponement therefore shines a spotlight on the party’s second-tier leadership, especially figures like Emily Awita, who must now manage the expectations of restless grassroots supporters while upholding the party’s promise of fairness and transparency in internal elections.

The larger political context cannot be ignored. Kenya’s electoral politics are cyclical, with party primaries and delegate elections forming the foundation for candidate selection during general elections. The individuals who emerge as delegates eventually play critical roles in shaping nominations, campaigns, and even coalition negotiations.

For Raila Odinga, who continues to wield immense influence even while shifting focus to the continental stage, these developments are a reminder that his party’s resilience will be tested in his partial absence. ODM’s ability to complete county delegate elections smoothly across the 43 counties will serve as a litmus test for whether it can sustain its dominance in opposition politics and maintain credibility as a party of democracy and order. The postponement in Busia, while seemingly minor in the grand scheme of things, therefore takes on symbolic significance it reflects both the enduring challenges of internal party management and the delicate balancing act required to keep a broad-based political movement intact.