ODM Ticket Will Be Won at the Ballot, Not Through Connections say's Omanyo
By Emmanuel Jumaah
Aspirants seeking the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket have been assured of a level playing field after the party's Secretary General, Catherine Omanyo, pledged that the nomination process will be driven solely by the will of party members.
Speaking in Madende, Nambale Constituency, during a food relief programme for elderly women, Omanyo dismissed claims that the party had already settled on preferred candidates, saying every aspirant would have an equal chance of securing the ODM ticket.
"Nobody will be given a nomination certificate because of influence or favour. The people will decide who flies the ODM flag,the party is finalising preparations for a nomination exercise that is free, fair, and transparent, members—not party officials—will have the final say on who represents ODM in the next elections" ~ Catherine Omanyo
She also challenged aspirants to focus on winning the confidence of party members instead of engaging in speculation over the nomination process.
"Go to the people and seek their support. That is the only path to earning the ODM ticket," .
Beyond party politics, Omanyo lauded the government's ongoing development agenda in Busia County, saying projects being implemented across the region are improving livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities.
She called for sustained investment in programmes that directly benefit local communities, arguing that development should remain above partisan politics.
On the other hand, She faulted Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna over his sentiments on the government Affordable Housing Programme, saying leaders must exercise responsibility when discussing issues that touch on communities across the country.
"Public leaders should use their platforms to unite Kenyans, not make remarks that may be interpreted as offensive to any community," she said.
Her remarks come as political activity begins to gather momentum ahead of the next election cycle, with parties stepping up preparations for what is expected to be highly contested nomination exercises.
