More than 300 women allied to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in Homa Bay have rejected calls for political zoning championed by their Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) counterparts in the county.
Led by Homa Bay County UDA Deputy Chairperson Rosemary Rumo, the women on Monday dismissed the zoning proposal by ODM leaders as undemocratic and against multiparty democracy. She was flanked by Mercy Akenge of the Women’s League, Bella Imbo from Suba North, Lilian Gogo of Kabondo Kasipul, and party delegate Margaret Anyango.
Rumo argued that Kenya’s Constitution guarantees freedom of political association and competition, emphasizing that no party should monopolize any region.
“Political zoning is against democracy and fair competition. President Ruto should reject the demand by ODM’s counterpart in the 2027 polls,” she said.
ODM has insisted on political zoning as a key agenda item in its ongoing 2027 negotiations with the UDA party.
The proposal seeks to have President William Ruto’s party refrain from fielding candidates in areas perceived as ODM strongholds, including Homa Bay, Migori, Kisumu, Siaya, and Busia counties.
Since 2007, most elected leaders in these regions have won on ODM tickets. However, Rumo noted that UDA has made significant inroads in the Nyanza region, attributing the shift to development programs initiated by President Ruto’s administration.
The women who spoke at the UDA offices in Homa Bay town also reaffirmed their loyalty to the ruling party and expressed support for Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo.
They vowed to continue mobilizing grassroots support for UDA in Hoa Bay ahead for 2027 general elections.
