Governor Barasa Launches Major ODM Branding Initiative Across Kakamega County
Mary Owano
Kakamega County ODM Party Chairman has launched a mega program to brand and popularize the party across the entire county, starting from the grassroots to the county level.
Fernandes Barasa, who also serves as the Governor of Kakamega County, has intensified efforts to brand the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in the region, aiming to ensure the party remains vibrant and visible.
While addressing Shianda residents during the official opening of the Mumias East ODM sub-county office, Barasa stated that establishing offices in each of the county’s 12 constituencies would help the party maintain a presence down to the grassroots level.
"We have embarked on the journey of branding the ODM party across Kakamega County, beginning with the official opening of its office in Mumias East. The rental fee for the office has already been paid for six months. We will employ two individuals to manage and oversee the smooth operation of party activities in the area," he said.
"There is a need to strengthen the ODM party in Kakamega County, and we look forward to opening ODM offices in all twelve sub-counties. This will ensure mass registration of residents, a process that is already ongoing," he added.
Kakamega County Majority Leader Philip Maina, who was present during the occasion, urged the ODM national board to consider devolving party functions in order to strengthen its grassroots presence.
"Our governor is loyal and fully capable of ensuring the smooth operation of the party's activities. We, therefore, urge the ODM national board to devolve power and responsibilities to the counties. In Kakamega, we already have a governor who is ready to take on that authority if given the mandate," Maina stated.
He also criticized some elected leaders for neglecting their duties and focusing on early campaigns instead of delivering on their mandates.
"We are fortunate to have a hardworking governor. Let’s give him the time he needs to fulfill his duties effectively until the next election in 2027," he said.
Party officials also thanked President William Ruto for supporting Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the AU Commission Chairperson, while backing the formation of a broad-based government.
