Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has officially been declared the ODM County Chairman following the party elections held on Monday, September 1, 2025.
The announcement came from Returning Officer Felix Ngala, supported by a team from Orange House led by Presiding Officer Violet Ananda. In a remarkable display of unity, delegates from all constituencies in Kakamega unanimously endorsed Barasa for the position.
Challenges did arise during the elections, particularly from Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera, who posed stiff competition. Despite an earlier round of voting that favored Barasa, Nabwera lodged a protest, claiming irregularities and violent incidents allegedly connected to Barasa’s supporters.
Barasa, however, emerged as the undisputed county chairman after the disputes were set aside. In his first address post-declaration, he expressed immense gratitude to the delegates, reinforcing the message of unity within the party in Kakamega. “ODM remains solid in the county,” he emphasized, dismissing any claims suggesting internal divisions.
Barasa made it clear that he intends to protect the party from any disruptive elements while also committing to strengthening ODM’s grassroots structures in preparation for the upcoming 2027 General Elections. His vision is ambitious: to secure all elective seats in Kakamega, spanning from the ward level up to gubernatorial and parliamentary positions, all while ensuring a robust national presence.
Reflecting on his election, Barasa stated, “Kakamega County ODM delegates have once again placed their trust in me by electing me as the ODM County Chairperson during today’s polls at Iguhu KMTC, Ikolomani… I remain steadfast in protecting our party from disruptive elements and committed to keeping ODM strong, vibrant, and prepared for 2027 and beyond.”
Controversies in the County Polls
This isn’t Barasa’s first rodeo as the county chair; he was first elected in 2023, a tenure that has seen its share of controversies. This year, Barasa advocated for voting processes to be conducted via consensus or the ‘mulolongo’ system, allowing delegates to line up for voting—a practice aligned with the party’s constitution.
Nabii Nabwera, on his part, rejected this approach and was supported by the majority of Kakamega MPs who pushed for a secret ballot system, illustrating the divide within the party. This contention highlights the challenges quickening within ODM, showcasing the intricate dynamics of local political landscapes.