CPA Evans Ogutu
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Elections Coordinating Committee, guided by the National Elections Committee (NEC), has formally reaffirmed CPA Evans Ogutu Ouma as the bona fide Chairperson of the Uriri Branch following months of internal antagonism that had stalled party operations in the constituency.
The decision follows a harmonization meeting convened after a protracted leadership dispute arising from contested grassroots elections that were later nullified by the party’s internal tribunal.
In a letter issued by the National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC), the party directed local officials to harmonize the leadership structure in Uriri in order to pave the way for credible county delegates’ elections ahead of the upcoming National Delegates Convention (NDC).
Background to the Dispute
The Uriri branch had been sharply divided between two rival camps led by CPA Evans Ogutu and Charles Aloo, with both sides laying claim to the chairmanship following disputed elections held in April last year. The dispute escalated into formal complaints before the ODM tribunal, which nullified the earlier outcome and called for reconciliation.
The wrangles mirrored broader tensions within Migori County ODM structures, particularly after the death of the party’s former leader Raila Odinga, which had slowed membership listing and grassroots reorganization efforts.
To resolve the impasse, the meeting was steered by Awendo MP and ODM Migori Interim Chairman Walter Owino, alongside members of the County Elections Committee including Walter Odago Onyango (Chairman), Jack Omenda (Committee Member), and Mary Chacha (Secretary).
After deliberations involving representatives from both factions, the committee unanimously resolved to retain CPA Evans Ogutu as Chairperson of the Uriri Branch.
The agreed branch leadership is as follows:
- Chairperson: CPA Evans Ogutu Ouma
- Deputy Chairperson: Gallus Ouma
- Secretary: Luke Obwoyo
- Treasurer: Mary Bewere
- Organising Secretary: Omondi Bernard Gwonyo
Officials Call for Unity
Walter Odago Onyango emphasized that the committee exercised neutrality throughout the process.
“We did not exercise partiality. Anyone still feeling aggrieved should channel their grievances to the National Office under Article 88 on dispute resolution,” he said, adding that grassroots elections are set to proceed by Friday as scheduled.
Jack Omenda underscored the need to move beyond factionalism and focus on consolidating power at the grassroots.
“The cost of living is high and education has skyrocketed. What our people need now is stability and service, not endless internal fights. We must find a power-sharing basis that puts the populace first,” he noted.
Ogutu Welcomes Harmonization
Speaking after his affirmation, CPA Evans Ogutu lauded the process, describing it as a collective victory for ODM supporters in Uriri.
“This issue started in April last year when antagonism took center stage and we ended up at the tribunal. I received a call from the committee to come on board and harmonize the matter. We submitted ourselves fully to ensure that ODM wins across all wards,” Ogutu said.
He acknowledged that harmonization means majority consensus and urged dissenting voices to respect party structures.
“Harmonization only means that the majority wins. I know some may not be comfortable, but this is the party’s decision. Whoever has a conflicting view should present it at the NDC. Today’s affirmation should narrow the gaps and allow us to play clean, non-divisive politics,” he added.
Looking Ahead
ODM officials confirmed that the Uriri resolution clears the path for the Migori grassroot elections ahead of the National delegates’ meeting slated for March 27, where outcomes of the harmonization process will be formally presented to the National deliberations table.
Party leaders reiterated that the Uriri issue is now “water under the bridge” and warned that any attempts to destabilize grassroots structures will not be tolerated.
With the leadership question settled, ODM in Migori now shifts focus to consolidating support, rebuilding membership rolls, and strengthening internal cohesion as it prepares for future electoral contests.
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