ODM refutes report of rifts in Bomachoge

By KENAN MIRUKA    

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) officials in Kisii County have moved to allay fears of rifts as campaigns kicked off ahead of the Bomachoge Borabu by-election.

Campaigns got off to a low-key start as candidates retreated to Nairobi to plan official launches for their respective bids. Others resorted to door-to-door campaigns and private meetings with supporters.

Kisii County ODM Youth League Chairman Ochwangi Mengo convened a meeting that brought together 40 officials of the Bomachoge Borabu sub branch who resolved to back the party’s candidate.

On Sunday, a group of ODM Youth League leaders from Bomachoge Borabu declared that they had ditched the party and resolved to back a UDF candidate.

They claimed they were not consulted during nominations to pick the party candidate for the mini poll.

The youth led by sub branch Chairman Geoffrey Gutwa had also accused party candidate Peter Kimori of sidelining the grassroots structures and officials in preparations for the by-election.

“Reports that youth in Bomachoge have decamped to other parties are incorrect because only a few individuals have backed other candidates for selfish interests,” said Mengo.

He added: “We are content with our candidate and our resolve will not be swayed by individuals seeking money.”