Raila Told to Withdraw Direct Ticket Given to Gladys Wanga

Friday, April 8, 2022 –Homa Bay youth poured on the streets today in protest of issuance of direct tickets to candidates in the area.

The youth, according to our sources, are not in terms with the Raila Odinga’s led ODM Party which has been favouring some candidates through issuance of direct tickets instead of allowing everyone to go through a nomination exercise as it is stipulated in their party Constitution.

In the ugly demonstrations of Friday April 8, the rowdy youth barricaded the roads, lighting up fires and burning tires. They described Raila Odinga’s decision as disrespectful and which could lead him to lose support again on the polling day.

Police had to swing into action to contain the youth and quell the demonstrations that were almost bringing the town to a standstill.

The youth, through their representatives, expressed fear that Raila may also start issuing direct tickets to County Assembly and Parliament aspirants.

“As people whose future are dependent on today’s leadership, we distance ourselves from the selfish and unprocedural move that disregards the will of the Homa Bay people,” one of the representatives stated.

Similar remarks were issued by his friends who also warned that the direct ticket culture was retrogressive and undemocratic in nature.

“We are hearing rumours that they are still looking down at other seats to issue direct tickets. It will not be fair,” he expressed.

They went on to promise to support Raila for the top seat but only if he will withdraw the ticket he had already issued to MP Gladys Wanga and which Evans Kidero was also waiting for. John Mbadi had to withdraw from the race following internal pressure.