By Kraus Osieko
Nyakach politician Jonathan Okoth Opande has emerged as a frontrunner in the race for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) county chairperson seat in Kisumu, drawing strong backing from delegates across several sub-counties ahead of Friday’s vote.
With only two days to the election at the Tom Mboya Labour College, Opande’s supporters say the momentum on the ground clearly favours him as the party prepares to elect new county leadership.
His main challenger is Market Milimani Ward MCA Seth Kanga, setting up a contest that has stirred political interest across the county.
In Nyakach, Opande’s home turf, party officials have openly declared their support, describing him as a committed grassroots mobiliser who has consistently stood with members.
Nyakach ODM sub-branch chairman Cllr Charles Seko said delegates from the area have unanimously endorsed Opande for the seat.
“As Nyakach delegates, we have made our decision and we are standing firm,” Seko said.
“Opande is our son. He has stood with party members whenever we needed him and supported delegates whenever there was a challenge.”
Seko said Opande’s long-standing involvement in party activities and his readiness to respond to the needs of members have earned him trust among grassroots leaders.
“Leadership is about service and commitment.
His actions and dedication to the party speak for themselves. That is why we believe he is best suited to steer ODM in Kisumu County,” he added.
Beyond Nyakach, Opande has also reportedly made significant inroads in other sub-counties, including Kisumu East, an area considered politically strategic in the contest.
Delegates from across the county have cited his accessibility and consistent engagement as key factors influencing their support.
Popularly known as Mullah, Opande has in recent months increased his presence at community events across the county.
He recently attended a funds drive aimed at supporting labourers in Kisumu and was also present at a youth empowerment forum that brought together local leaders and national figures, including Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi.
Supporters argue that such engagements demonstrate his commitment to uplifting communities and strengthening party unity.
Many describe him as a philanthropist whose outreach initiatives have positively impacted residents across the county.
However, the race remains competitive.
Kanga, who serves as the MCA for Market Milimani Ward in Kisumu Central and also holds the position of branch chairman, continues to command support in parts of Kisumu Central.
His experience within party leadership structures has been cited by his backers as an asset in managing county affairs.
Kanga is also said to be eyeing the Kisumu East parliamentary seat in the 2027 general election, adding another dimension to the contest.
Political observers note that this ambition has generated debate among some delegates about his future political priorities.
Questions have also arisen regarding his status as a delegate, with discussions centring on whether he will participate as a representative from Kisumu Central, where he serves as MCA, or from Kisumu East, where he hails from.
The matter has reportedly created confusion among some party members as the election approaches.
Despite the undercurrents, both candidates are intensifying their final campaigns, seeking to consolidate support ahead of the decisive vote.
Delegates say the election will play a crucial role in shaping ODM’s strength and cohesion at the county level as the party prepares for future political contests.
As anticipation builds, all eyes are now on Friday’s gathering at the Tom Mboya Labour College, where delegates will determine who takes charge of ODM affairs in Kisumu County.
For Opande and his supporters, confidence remains high that the momentum built over recent weeks will translate into victory at the ballot.
