MPs Bosire, Gumbo and Kaluma say the vetting will ensure only loyalists fly its flag
Three ODM MPs and three parliamentary hopefuls have supported the proposed vetting of aspirants ahead of nominations to weed out moles. The proposal has been criticised by some aspirants, who say it “may be another means of introducing direct nomination through the back door to bar unwanted candidates.”
But speaking to the Star separately on Sunday, MPs Timothy Bosire (Kitutu Masaba), Nicholas Gumbo (Rarieda) and Peter Kaluma (Homa Bay Town) said vetting will ensure only party loyalists fly the ODM flag. “We shall look at the character of individuals,” Bosire said. “Getting a perfect candidate may not be possible, but we want to minimise the problems encountered during nominations.”
National chairman John Mbadi has said the rules will be ratified by June to ensure smooth nominations and prevent discord. He said candidates will be thoroughly vetted to weed out Jubilee moles and traitors using ODM for a free ride before jumping ship.
Self-exaltation
Gumbo said dedicated service must inform the scorecard. “We have called for vetting many times to weed out those who use the party as a platform for self-exaltation,” he said.
Parliamentary aspirants Richard Ogendo (Kisumu Central), John Anditi (Kisumu East) and Omondi Gwonyo (Uriri) welcomed the proposal. “All parties have rules. Any aspirant is at liberty to join any party whose rules and regulations are favourable to them,” Ogendo said. “It is not fair for anybody to be elected on the ODM ticket and then switch loyalty.” Anditi and Gwonyo said loyalty to the party is key.
