UGUNJA, Kenya — The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) opened nominations in Ugunja on Friday, setting the stage for a keenly watched by-election in Siaya County.
Voting across the 33 polling centres began unevenly, with some stations delayed by morning church services and logistical hitches. At Masamra polling station, the exercise started at 9 a.m., almost two hours later than scheduled. Elsewhere, voters queued patiently, some elderly residents carried into centres by relatives so they could cast their ballots.
Despite the slow start, the mood was largely calm. Party officials carried out verification checks before handing out ballot papers, with a few residents turned away for not being registered ODM members.
Those vying for the party ticket include Moses Omondi, Joseph Aluru and engineer Fredrick ZB Owino. Each took part in the vote, appealing to their supporters to remain peaceful and patient.
Mr Omondi, speaking after casting his ballot at Siror Rock Creek Church, praised the process. “I want to thank our supporters for showing up. The exercise has been smooth so far,” he said.
Mr Aluru, voting at Nyasanda Polytechnic, urged residents to keep turning out. “There is still time,” he told locals waiting in line.
At Simerro, Eng. Owino called on officials to extend the deadline, citing delays in opening several centres. “It’s only fair to give people a chance to vote until 5 p.m.,” he said.
Residents also voiced mixed experiences. Mary Nyamombasa, an ODM member, said she had arrived at her polling centre by 6 a.m. but did not mind the wait. “We have not seen any major challenges apart from some supporters shouting names inside the centres, but that was quickly managed,” she noted.
Turnout varied sharply across the constituency. While some stations reported steady queues, others remained quiet for most of the day. Still, the atmosphere was peaceful, a contrast to past nomination contests that often drew tension.
The Ugunja by-election, slated for 27 November, has attracted more than five aspirants overall. But ODM’s choice is expected to carry weight across Siaya County, a region where party loyalty has long shaped the political landscape.
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