ODM rallies Vihiga support base for 2027
Western
By
Brian Kisanji
| Aug 26, 2025
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is seeking to consolidate its support base in Vihiga County ahead of the 2027 General Election after successfully concluding grassroots elections in which the majority of officials retained their seats.
The elections saw Zebedee Osabwa re-elected as county chairperson, with Ebery Lamgwa chosen as deputy chairperson.
Davelson Muruli clinched the position of county secretary, while Ben Ombima was elected organising secretary. Other winners included Japheth Muzembi as treasurer, Pauline Amwata to lead the women’s league, Harrison Ambuko as youth league representative, and Julius Egosami for the disability league.
ALSO READ: ODM seeks to tighten grip on Vihiga assembly amid wrangles
ODM county elections xoordinator, Caroline Angote, praised the smooth and orderly conduct of the polls, saying they reflected the political maturity of members and the party’s resolve to reorganise from the ground up ahead of 2027.
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“The manner in which the Vihiga elections were conducted reflects a disciplined and united membership. It affirms the strength of our party structures and positions us well as we prepare for 2027,” Angote said after announcing results that were largely achieved through consensus.
The Raila Odinga–led party has now outlined new plans, including opening branch offices at the ward level, launching a membership recruitment drive, and intensifying activities in regions where ODM has previously had minimal presence.
These efforts will culminate in a mass registration of new members and the election of grassroots officials across the county.
In his victory speech, Osabwa pledged to promote inclusivity and strengthen collaboration between county leadership and grassroots members, saying his re-election was a mandate for collective preparation.
“This is not a personal triumph but a victory for every ODM member in Vihiga. I commit myself to servant leadership—to listen, and to ensure the voices of our members are acted upon as we organise for 2027,” Osabwa said.
READ: ODM forms team to probe Sh2.5 billion scandal
Delegates noted that the seamless polls had boosted confidence in ODM’s local structures and revitalised its grassroots base at a time when parties are positioning themselves for the next electoral cycle.
The outcome is particularly significant given Vihiga’s strategic role in Western Kenya politics and its status as home to ODM deputy party leader, Senator Godfrey Osotsi.
According to Osotsi, ODM remains the party to watch in the coming polls, expressing confidence it will outperform rivals in Vihiga as it did in the 2022 general election.
In 2022, ODM enjoyed strong results in the county, with Governor Wilber Ottichilo and Senator Osotsi both elected on its ticket. The party also secured 10 out of 25 ward seats, making it the majority party in the County Assembly.
Bkisanji@standardmedia.co.ke