In a strategic move to reclaim its historical roots, the Forum for the Restoration of Democracy-Kenya (FORD Kenya) has launched a major restructuring of its leadership and grassroots network in Siaya County.
The party, which traces its origins to the legendary Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, signaled its intent to challenge the regional dominance of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) by appointing Omondi Vero as the new Siaya County Chairperson.
Speaking during a delegates’ meeting in Siaya, FORD Kenya Deputy Party Leader Millicent Abudho emphasized the party’s deep-seated connection to the region.
”FORD Kenya’s origin is in Siaya County,” Abudo stated. “We are going to the grassroots to make sure we have more members joining the party. We believe this time around, FORD Kenya is going to get more seats in Siaya.”
FORD Kenya National Vice Chair Hon. Margaret Sabina Wanjala echoed these sentiments, noting that while the party is national in scope, returning to Siaya feels like coming “home” due to the legacy of Oginga Odinga.
In a direct challenge to its political rivals, particularly ODM, the party leadership issued a firm rejection of “zoning”—a practice where political coalitions reserve specific regions for certain parties to avoid internal competition.
Abudo argued that zoning undermines democratic rights and often results in leaders who fail to deliver.
”We want to ask our brothers, the ODM: Let the ground decide. The issue of zoning will bring people who will not be able to deliver to the people, but to themselves,” Abudo said.
Despite the local focus, the leaders remained aligned with the national Kenya Kwanza administration. Both Abudo and Wanjala explicitly declared the party’s support for President William Ruto’s re-election.
”We are in government… and we are going to ensure Ruto is re-elected for his second term,” Abudo affirmed. “Ruto is two terms!”
The newly appointed Siaya Chair, Omondi Vero, described FORD Kenya as a “party of peace” and invited aspirants for various seats to register, promising a platform without the restrictive conditions found in other political outfits.
”Our agenda is for all people to come and join. We are humble people and we ask everyone to join us,” Vero concluded.
