ODM Moves To Save Face In Kakamega, Recalls A Candidate From Studies After The Ticket Was Rejected

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The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is moving swiftly to restore order and confidence in its camp following confusion over its candidate for the Kisa East Ward by-election in Kakamega County.

On October 2, 2024, the party suffered a setback after Isaiah Ayaya, who had been unveiled as the ODM candidate, returned his nomination ticket and rejoined the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K).

Ayaya explained that he was approached too late by ODM and insisted he would still contest the seat, but under the DAP-K banner.

Ayaya’s dramatic exit came after ODM had initially handed the certificate to Thomas Omurunga Eshuya, who was later advised to pursue studies in South Africa.

However, in a surprising turn of events, Eshuya has now reclaimed his place as the official ODM flagbearer, assuring supporters that he remains in the race.

***Kakamega County governor Fernandez Barasa With Isiah Ayaya who later returned the certificate before returning it and decamping to DAP Kenya. Photo Credit: Governor Barasa Media Team***.

In an official statement, Eshuya dismissed claims that ODM had been weakened by Ayaya’s departure.

“Yes, the ODM Kakamega County team had proposed to nominate Ayaya, who has turned out to be a coward. He chickened out of the largest party—it’s a loss for him,” he said.

Eshuya confirmed that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) had already received his nomination papers and cleared him for the November 27, 2025 by-election. “As a bonafide ODM loyal member, I’m still in the race as the party’s flag bearer,” he declared.

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He urged ODM supporters in Kisa East to remain steadfast and focus on peaceful campaigns. “To my supporters, thank you for remaining loyal. Let’s continue with our ground mobilization. The rejected stone will build the house,” he added.

ODM now faces the tough task of consolidating its base in Kisa East, where shifting political loyalties could determine the outcome of the hotly contested race.