By KEPHER OTIENO

Political dynamics in Migori County took an exciting turn as Awendo MP Owino was appointed as the new branch ODM party chair signaling a fresh chapter in local politics.

His appointment was seen as a strategic move by the ODM party to revitalize its presence and galvanize support ahead of the next general election cycle in 2027.

Owino was picked by the ODM Central Management Committee led by party leader Raila Odinga and the decision was communicated by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.

The news was met with a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism. Supporters hailed it as a promising political development that would bring new ideas and vigor to the party.

Skeptics, on the other hand, questioned whether Owino’s humility and softness would be effective in navigating the complex political terrain of Migori.

Last week, he led a team of elders to Sakwa Awendo to Bondo to pay a visit to Outgoing ODM leader Mr Raila Odinga at his home.

They wished Mr Odinga success in his AU job.

“We will unite, work together carry out strategic plans as one family, and renew our focus on party unity and grassroots mobilization in the county going forward,’’ explained Owino.

His journey to this party’s pivotal role was marked by his grassroots efforts and his reputation for addressing local issues with a pragmatic approach and sense of humanity.

In the last seven years, Owino’s tenure as MP has been characterized by vigorous community project engagement and advocacy for impactful development projects.

His appointment as ODM Migori branch party chair was seen as a recognition of his efforts and a chance for him to further positively influence the political landscape.

One of the first things Owino did, as chair, was to launch a series of town hall meetings across Migori at the weekend starting from his turf-Awendo as he launched NGCDF projects.

These meetings aimed to gather input from constituents, address their concerns, and outline the Orange party’s new direction in the County.

Owino emphasized transparency and inclusivity, promising that the party would work closely with all leaders to tackle pressing issues such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

The MP’s leadership style has been direct engagement with people, and his willingness to challenge the status quo was both a breath of fresh air and a source of controversy.

His supporters praised his bold vision and dynamic approach, with political activists led by Paul Siengo saying he was equal to the task, while some critics questioned his ability to build consensus and manage party affairs effectively.

Charles Ouma, a resident of the Uriri constituency, expressed skepticism about whether Owino will successfully navigate the controversies that often dominate Migori’s political arena.

However, Ouma remains optimistic, reviewing his works, stating that despite the challenges, Owino is fully equipped for the task urging him to revive active branch party activities.

Migori politics has long been characterized by intense competition, shifting alliances to UDA before broad-based government, and power struggles within ODM.

Owino’s ability to unite the party base and foster a stable political environment will be key to his success, especially with the high expectations placed on him in this new role.

His leadership could also be pivotal in determining ODM’s future influence in the county, as well as shaping the trajectory of local governance as he is seen as a neutral political arbiter.

Nevertheless, the energy he brought to his new role was undeniable, and it set the stage for an intriguing period in Migori’s political landscape.

Whether MP Owino’s appointment would lead to a revitalized party and a strengthened political presence in Migori remained to be seen.

However, his impact was already evident in the renewed political discourse and heightened public engagement that followed his ascension to the role of party chair.

He has reached out to all ODM MPs in Migori County to discuss the best way to run the party affairs.

The MPs are Junet Mohammed (Suna East), the minority leader in Parliament, Tom Odege (Nyatike), Peter Masara(Suna West), Mark Nyamita(Uriri), and Paul Abuor(Rongo).

He also has the backing of Governor Ochillo Ayacko to steer the ODM party affairs.

“I will do my best working with all, without bias,’ he said.

Odege, Abuor, and Masara termed him “a good man and a neutral legislator” whose relationship cut across all constituencies.

“We want to wish him all the best,’’ said Odege. Abuor, Masara, and Nyamita echoed the same. Abuor said.

“We will give him all the necessary support,’’ Owino vowed to meet them periodically and party officials to revamp ODM.