BY EVETTA OBUYA
Orange Democratic Movement party leaders in Uriri constituency, Migori have called on the headquaters and local leaders to help strengthen the grassroot leadership in the area to what they called as influence of moles.
Led by Argwings Obar, the North Kanyamkago MCA aspirant and constituency party chair and branch Youth Leader Jeremiah Chaga, the group raised concerns over what they described as growing political intolerance in Uriri.
The two alleged that a recent ODM meeting was to be held at Bergamo was disrupted by armed youths that was hired by Linda Mwanahinchi and UDA party,.
“We were to have our meeting at Bergamo however when we reached there we found over 200 goons hired by Linda Mwanainchi and UDA. This forced us to change our venue as we chose peace because violence would not solve anything,” Argwins Obar said.
He also appealed to ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga and Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko to strengthen the party’s grassroots structures in Uriri and ensure members are protected from political intimidation as preparations for the 2027 General Election gather pace.
“We count on our chair nationally Wanga together with Migori chair Ayacko who is also the patron to look onto the party leaders of ODM in Uriri and strengthen our grass root presence,” Chaga said.
Chaga urged ODM supporters to remain united despite political differences, warning that internal divisions could weaken the party’s support base.
“Let us live as brothers and sisters. We should not fight because of politics. Let us remain united and continue building our party together,” Chaga said.
The two also called for political tolerance, unity and prudent management of community empowerment funds, saying peaceful coexistence and accountability are critical to accelerating development and improving livelihoods ahead of the 2027 General Election.
They were speaking during the launch of the Women Leaders Will Talk youth leadership initiative in Uriri.
Obar commended the government’s support for development programmes over the past four years, saying the interventions had strengthened service delivery and expanded economic opportunities for local communities.
“We appreciate the support we have received from the government over the last four years, and we remain committed to working together to improve the lives of our people,” Obar said.
He further urged residents to reject political intolerance and embrace peace, noting that meaningful development can only be realized in a stable and united society.
“The people need peace, and we must all work together to maintain it. Let us unite and build our community instead of engaging in conflicts,” Argwins added.
They said the county government would continue investing in essential services, including healthcare, mental health programmes, support for persons with disabilities and public infrastructure, while encouraging residents to seek services through the appropriate county offices.
The forum also reviewed the performance of community empowerment funds, ‘UWEZO FUND’ as reported by the women leader that Sh18.2 million had been disbursed to organized groups across the sub-county. According to the report, the programme has achieved a 39.5 per cent loan repayment rate, representing a slight improvement from the previous financial year.
Leaders expressed optimism that strengthening grassroots leadership, improving accountability in community empowerment programmes and promoting political tolerance would enhance inclusive development and create more opportunities for residents across the county.
