The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has called off planned grassroots elections 24 hours before the actual exercise.
In a statement issued on Friday, April 26, ODM announced that the phase one grassroots elections will be held at a later date communicated by the party.
The Azimio la Umoja affiliate party attributed the decision to heavy rains which have resulted into floods in various parts of the country.
Moreover, the National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC) revealed that Busia, Siaya, Kajiado and Wajir Counties had requested for the exercise to be postponed.
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"The National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC) has received requests from Busia. Siaya, Kajiado, and Wajir counties where large sections of the respective counties are experiencing floods and related challenges occasioned by ongoing heavy rains for the review of its programme for the First Phase of ODM grassroots elections," ODM announced.
In a notice issued by Emily Agnes Awita, the Chairperson of the National Elections Coordination Committee, announced that all grassroots elections slated for April 27, 29 and 30 have all been called off.
"Having reviewed the ground situation and assessed the requests, the NECC wishes to announce that the elections scheduled for 27th. 29th and 30th April 2024 are temporarily postponed as we assess the situation. These will resume as soon as the situation has improved," Awita stated.
"Meanwhile, the county coordinating committees should continue with logistical preparations for the same. Any inconvenience is regretted as we stand in solidarity and sympathy with our members and Kenyans who are affected by the adverse weather conditions," she added.
Meanwhile, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is also gearing up for its grassroots elections. It is not clear if it will be postponed due to flooding and the ravaging effects of the rain.
