ODM MPs Push Back Against Zoning Calls, Urge Competitive Nominations
Suba North Mp Millie Odhiambo speaking to the press during a press briefing at on April 07, 2026
A section of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Members of Parliament has pushed back against growing calls for political zoning within the party, arguing that open competition through credible nominations remains the best way to strengthen the party and uphold democratic principles ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The lawmakers said ODM has historically remained strong because it allows candidates to compete freely rather than restricting positions to specific regions or individuals.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo cautioned that aggressively pushing the zoning agenda risks prioritising personal political survival over the interests of constituents.
“When we start pushing an agenda strongly of zoning, it means that we are putting our personal interests ahead of those of our constituents,” she said.
She maintained that ODM has consistently demonstrated its strength by fielding candidates across the country without relying on formal zoning arrangements. According to the legislator, the party should instead focus on strengthening internal democratic processes and ensuring credible nominations that inspire public confidence.
Odhiambo also urged leaders to remain accountable to the electorate by demonstrating tangible development and service delivery rather than seeking political protection through party arrangements. In her view, leadership should not be about avoiding competition but about proving one’s record to voters.
Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo echoed similar sentiments, arguing that the zoning debate contradicts the democratic ideals championed by the late ODM leader Raila Odinga, who was widely recognised for his role in the struggle for multiparty democracy in Kenya.
“Our late leader fought for multiparty democracy, and that is why Kenyans supported him,” he said.
Elisha Odhiambo further defended Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, saying civil servants should not be dragged into political disputes. He argued that government officers should be allowed to perform their duties without unnecessary political pressure, adding that political disagreements should remain within the political arena.
Nyando MP Jared Okello also opposed the zoning proposal, warning that limiting political competition to a few parties or regions could undermine Kenya’s democratic space.
“We will not segregate this country only for ODM and UDA,” he said.
Okello argued that Kenya’s multiparty system provides space for numerous political parties and candidates to compete freely, and any attempt to restrict that competition would go against the spirit of the Constitution and the democratic gains achieved over the years.
Muhoroni MP James Oyoo supported the call for a broader democratic space within the party, saying aspiring leaders should be allowed to compete fairly for positions.
At the same time, Oyoo noted that some sensitive political matters should be handled through the party’s leadership structures, emphasising that the party leader and secretary-general remain the official voices on major policy positions.
The debate on zoning has intensified in recent weeks as political parties begin early preparations for the 2027 General Election, with some leaders arguing that zoning could help manage internal competition while others insist that it undermines democracy and weakens party structures.
