In a decisive blow to rivals, Moses Okoth Omondi of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has been declared the winner of the 2025 by-election for Ugunja Constituency after securing 9,447 votes. His victory reaffirms ODM’s dominance in the region, as Ugunja remains a bastion of the party.
Omondi’s meteoric rise began with his 13 years of service as Ugunja Constituency Manager under former MP, and now Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary, James Opiyo Wandayi. Seeking to continue the development agenda started under Wandayi’s watch, Omondi clinched the ODM nomination on 26 September 2025 with 5,329 votes — defeating rivals Joseph Otieno Alur and Fredrick Owino in a closely contested primary.
His subsequent by-election campaign drew broad support across party lines. Leaders from both ODM and allied parties, including Wandayi, rallied to his side — describing him as the candidate best positioned to sustain progress in Ugunja.
The by-election on 27 November was marked by notably low voter turnout across many polling stations in Ugunja, as voters trickled in slowly throughout the day. Despite the muted turnout, Omondi’s margin of victory was convincing, underscoring the enduring strength of his support base.
Omondi’s win ensures that Ugunja remains under ODM’s representation — a strategic hold for the party ahead of the 2027 general election. Given his background in local administration and deep familiarity with constituency needs, his ascent to MP-elect is likely to offer continuity in ongoing development projects. Observers will now watch closely whether he delivers on promises to expand infrastructure, improve public services, and uphold the development legacy of his predecessor.
With fresh mandate in hand, Moses Okoth Omondi has pledged to prioritise infrastructure development, social services, and inclusive governance for Ugunja residents. As the second MP since Ugunja was carved out in 2013, his performance will serve as a litmus test for the resilience of ODM’s grassroots structures in Siaya County — and may shape the mood ahead of the next general elections.
Leave a Reply