The Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG) party has initiated a county-wide membership registration in Siaya, Kenya. This move is part of its strategy to field candidates for every elective seat in the region. At a recent delegates meeting in Siaya town, party leaders emphasized the importance of a free and fair nomination process. They warned against political intimidation, tribal rhetoric, and back-room deals by established parties.
MDG's delegate spokesperson, Joseph Olale, criticized attempts to suppress political pluralism. He noted that Kenya's multiparty democracy was hard-won and must not be undermined by threats to alternative political vehicles. Olale stated that his party is shifting focus from rhetoric-driven politics to development, growth, and robust competition of ideas. This approach aims to provide voters with meaningful choices beyond traditional party lines.
County Chairman Auscah Wambiya expressed concern over elected leaders who abandoned Siaya voters after the 2022 elections to pursue personal interests in Nairobi. He urged residents to reject candidates who dictate voter choices and instead seek votes independently. Wambiya also called for Siaya residents to directly decide their governor for the first time. He expressed support for broad-based leadership and President William Ruto.
Gem Sub-County Chairman Ogam Maramba echoed the call for visionary leadership under the MDG banner. He emphasized the need for genuine representation across Siaya's sub-counties of Bondo, Ugunja, and Alego Usonga. Maramba's sentiments align with the party's goal of providing effective leadership and representation to the people of Siaya.
County Vice Chairman Sylvester Wire detailed the party's rollout, noting that MDG spent four days establishing sub-branch structures in all six Siaya sub-counties. Membership registration is now underway, with party structures in place from polling stations to the county level. This groundwork positions MDG to mount a formidable challenge in the upcoming elections.
County Woman Representative Angeline Odhiambo urged women across Siaya to actively engage in political leadership through the MDG framework. She encouraged them to pursue elective seats beyond token positions, emphasizing the importance of women's participation in politics. Odhiambo's call to action aims to increase women's representation in Siaya's leadership.
With its grassroots mobilization and membership registration campaign underway, MDG is signaling its intention to provide voters with a direct say in choosing their future leaders. The party's efforts aim to promote a free and fair electoral process, free from intimidation and manipulation. By engaging with voters and promoting inclusive leadership, MDG seeks to make a meaningful impact in the upcoming elections.
Key points
- MDG party launches grassroots drive in Siaya, Kenya, to promote fair nominations and end political intimidation.