A section of Migori County has threatened to boycott the 2027 General election if the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party continues with the zoning talks with their counterparts from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA)
Speaking in Migori town, the residents expressed concern that zoning would deny them the freedom to exercise their democratic rights in choosing their preferred leaders across all levels of elective posts.
Led by Bunge La Wananchi Chairperson-Migori Chapter Charles Osewe, they explained that a bigger section of potential voters may opt out of voting altogether if forced to choose from pre-selected candidates come August 2027.
They also criticised the current political leaders from Nyanza for championing zoning, accusing them of failing to deliver development and instead relying on ODM party backing to secure electoral victories.
Osewe insisted that the upcoming elections should be driven by the will of the people, emphasising that voters are now keen on electing visionary and servant leaders capable of delivering meaningful change both at the national and county levels.
The official noted that zoning areas for certain political parties was a sign of fear and panic from the current leaders who think they may not be reelected.
“Let’s have party freedom across the country by allowing each interested individual to run for election; to safeguard our democracy and democratic right to elect whoever we want to be our leaders at the national, county, constituency and ward levels”, noted Osewe.
John Opiyo, a resident of Migori town, said that zoning certain areas as ODM strongholds will deny opportunities to good and experienced leaders from other political parties who want to bring meaningful change and development in the country.
Opiyo said those calling for zoning have failed to deliver their election promises and manifestos to the electorate, alleging that all they want is to look for an easier route to be elected.
He also pointed out that having political competition from other political parties like the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in Nyanza will strengthen democracy and political parties in the country.
In recent months, the ODM party has been engaging in electoral zoning, particularly in its stronghold areas, as talks with the UDA intensify ahead of a pre-coalition pact for the upcoming 2027 general election.
ODM top organ officials have been pushing for a 50-50 power sharing with the ruling party, UDA, respect for the ODM party’s strongholds, as well as open competition in other areas.
By Geoffrey Makokha
