ODM dismisses IEBC Strategic Plan, say it is null and void

ODM Chairman John Mbadi brief the media during the party' s strategic meeting retreat at Maanzoni Lodge in Machakos on Sunday 19/04/15. [PHOTO/BONIFACE OKENDO/STANDARD]

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders completed a three-day voter mobilisation and championing of the Okoa Kenya initiative in Migori County.

The ODM team visited Rongo, Awendo, Suna East, Suna West, Uriri and Nyatike, where they challenged residents to turn up in large numbers and register as voters.

Party national chairman John Mbadi took the chance to dismiss the strategic plan launched by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), saying it was null and void.

"We were surprised to see the IEBC launching a Strategic Plan, while ODM, which is the largest party in Kenya was not consulted or involved. This shows that IEBC is not independent but speaks the same language as the Jubilee government," claimed Mr Mbadi.

He said the Strategic Plan is the latest effort by IEBC to whitewash the fundamental flaws that have been pointed out by political parties and governance experts.

"This is why we need national referendum so that we can bring sanity to IEBC. We call upon all residents to take identity cards and register as voters. This time, we must kill this monster called the tyranny of numbers," he added.

The legislator also drummed up support for CORD leader Raila Odinga saying his presidency was an idea that Kenyans have nursed for a long time.

 BRIBERY CLAIMS

Ruaraka MP Tom Kajwang challenged the Jubilee government to exhibit transparency in all projects that they initiate in the country, saying the government had obligation to serve all citizens regardless of their political affiliation.

Joseph Ndiege (Suna West) called on to the Jubilee government to ensure all the citizens were secure within Kenyan boundaries.

"Citizens of this nation have to be protected by the government. Rampart killings in North Eastern region should stop. This is the reason why we are championing for Okoa Kenya initiative," said Mr Ndiege.

Nyatike MP, Edick Anyanga cautioned chiefs against asking for bribes to register people.

"People can only change the leadership in this country through votes. In other areas, people are registering for free while some chiefs here withhold people's identity cards. This impunity must stop.