Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has said he will defend his seat on the Orange Democratic Movement party ticket.
Barasa, who is the Kakamega county ODM chairperson, said the party had made great strides in the county under his leadership.
“You cannot build your house, furnish it, only for someone to come and tell you to leave and go stay in a tent. I am in ODM to stay,” Barasa said.
Kakamega Woman Rep Elsie Muhanda and Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka are angling to challenge him for the ticket ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula who was Barasa’s running mate on a DAP-K ticket has since registered in UDA as a governor candidate in 2027.
Speaking when he commissioned an ECDE centre at Shivakala Primary School in Shinyalu subcounty on Tuesday, Barasa faulted a section of leaders for what he termed a deliberate attempt to sabotage growth of the party.
He called on party leaders and members to remain focused and united as ODM continues to carry out activities marking its departed leader Raila Odinga’s first anniversary.
Barasa warned against political distractions and wrangles by divisive elements in the party.
The governor cautioned ODM members to be wary of “bad actors” whose actions could undermine the party’s unity and stability.
“Peace, unity and adherence to ODM ideals were essential to preserving Raila Odinga’s political legacy,” he said.
He said he will not be swayed into betraying the late Raila Odinga even in his death.
“I was loyal to Baba when he was alive and I still remain loyal a year after he departed. Baba left us in broad-based government and it shall remain that as such,” he added.
He welcomed people from across Western region to attend Raila’s first anniversary to be held at Bukhungu Stadium on Friday.
Barasa highlighted various achievements he has made as the county chairperson since 2022.
“In my capacity, I have ensured the party is visible and properly branded up to the grassroots level in all the 12 constituencies of Kakamega, ” he said.
His remarks come as ODM members across the country continue commemorative activities in honour of Raila Odinga, with the party’s unity and political legacy featuring prominently in the tributes.
