A section of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Members of Parliament has opposed proposals to introduce zoning in the party’s nomination process, arguing that the move could weaken internal democracy, limit competition, and risk alienating supporters in key regions, including Luo Nyanza.
The legislators maintained that ODM has historically relied on open and competitive nominations, saying that approach has helped the party remain strong and connected to voters. They warned that adopting zoning could be seen as favouring certain candidates and could undermine fairness within the party.
Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo backed the call for open nominations, saying, “I encourage my party to carry credible election nominations because ODM is still a popular party as the ODM will still carry the day. As a Party we've fought for multiparty democracy and our late leader stood for multiparty democracy.”
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo also raised concerns over the zoning proposal, saying it could send the wrong signal to the electorate and weaken ODM’s democratic image. She insisted that the party should remain open to competition rather than restrict the process through internal arrangements.
“ODM is a popular party and the party has always successfuly fronted candidates without zoning. Let's us be honest and none of us is Raila Odinga and we must listen to the Public.” Millie said.
She further questioned the push for zoning, noting that it could create perceptions of preferential treatment within the party. “We want to reconsider the issue of zoning. The issues tends to send a message that we want a favourable treatment and it's unfortunate that we are giving the issue ultimatums on the issue of Zoning. We need to rethink and strengthen ODM.”
Millie also dismissed fears of competition from rival parties, saying ODM should remain confident in its support base. “ I'm told there is a UDA candidate known as Silas Jakakimba and I say I welcome them in the name of Jesus Christ. Why are we fearful? At a personal level, I think we need to rethink the matters of Zoning.” She added, “I don't like this zoning and it doesn't sit well with me.”
At the same time, she cautioned against political intolerance and the targeting of public officials in political disputes.
“There is no reason why we chase people away whether from the party or the broad based government. The issue or idea or a thought of trying to chase Raymond Omollo from the government we discourage from that thought and urge you to perish the thought. We come from a very marginalized government from the past governments.”
Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo also took issue with recent remarks attributed to Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, urging leaders to avoid involving civil servants in political battles. “Over the weekend in a function in HomaBay, MP Peter Kaluma insinuated that he is going to request the head of State to ensure that Raymond Omollo is removed from his position. I want to ask Kaluma that let other officers in the government talk about officers in the government. Face us as politicians not government officials.” Elisha said.
Nyando MP Jared Okello warned that zoning, if not carefully handled, could undermine democratic progress and introduce divisions within the party and the country at large. He argued that open competition remains the best way to maintain credibility in the nomination process.
“The issue of Zoning needs to be looked in context. If DCP can listen to ground and talk to us, we cannot segregate this country and we shall not go against our own constitution.”Okello said.
He added, “If we are not careful, we may go back to single party dictatorship. Let's embrace everybody and we carry out credible nominations. Once credible nominations is ensued I don't think we should harbor any fears of meeting our opponents.”
The zoning debate has also drawn reactions from political rivals, with leaders allied to the United Democratic Alliance welcoming the prospect of open contests and expressing readiness to field candidates in ODM strongholds. Some of them have argued that zoning signals discomfort with competition and could limit voter choice.
The issue gained momentum after Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi indicated that zoning would be central in discussions around a potential political arrangement involving ODM and UDA. His remarks have added to the ongoing debate within the party.
Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has emerged as one of the strongest supporters of zoning, arguing that ODM must safeguard its strongholds and protect its identity. He maintained that zoning is necessary to strengthen the party’s electoral strategy and improve its chances in national contests, suggesting that ODM may consider going it alone in the next elections.
With differing views now emerging among ODM leaders, the party leadership is under pressure to revisit the zoning proposal and find a balance between maintaining unity and upholding internal democracy as preparations for upcoming elections continue.
