Raila and ODM Leaders Attacked as Event Turns Chaotic

An Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) rally led by Raila Odinga turned tumultuous, resulting in injuries due to a violent clash among youths, in Busia town on Monday afternoon.

The chaos erupted at Busia Youth Polytechnic during the party’s ongoing membership drive when Governor Paul Otuoma sought to confirm his ODM membership.

However, the atmosphere soured when ODM Communications Director, Philip Etale, disclosed that the governor held membership number 32, provoking jeers from the crowd.

The situation escalated as some youths wielding machetes and batons targeted those who heckled Governor Otuoma.

Pandemonium ensued, causing delegates to scatter, with Odinga’s security forming a protective shield around him while urging the crowd to return. Governor Otuoma, under a hail of stones, was swiftly evacuated from the scene.

The rally resumed later, with only Raila Odinga addressing the gathering. He denounced the violence, characterizing the orchestrators as cowards.

Odinga emphasized the party’s commitment to peaceful politics, stating, “As ODM, we are a peaceful party, and we do not abuse anybody.

We want to play clean politics that will benefit our people.” Despite the disturbance, he asserted that attempts to intimidate the party would fail, noting that ODM was a significant force in Africa, and those behind the chaos were criminals fearful of the party’s influence.

Raila Odinga kicked off the second phase of the party’s membership drive with meetings and rallies in Busia County.

The day began with a gathering at Malaba Hospital in Teso North constituency, followed by a rally in Malaba town. Subsequently, a meeting was held at Busia Training Institute before the unfortunate incident at Busia Polytechnic Grounds.

Odinga was accompanied by notable figures, including Governor Otuoma, ODM Deputy Party Leader Wycliffe Oparanya, Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Minority Leader in the National Assembly Opiyo Wandayi, and various MPs from Western region and other parts of the country.

Despite the disruption, Odinga remained resolute, emphasizing the party’s dedication to constructive and peaceful political engagement.