Siaya Woman Representative Christine Ombaka has endorsed proposals for implementing “zoning” within the inclusive government structure to strengthen the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
During the conclusion of the nationwide voter registration campaign, Dr. Ombaka highlighted that while ODM collaborates with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), defining regional boundaries is crucial to preserve the party’s voter bases.
The lawmaker contended that zoning serves as a fundamental requirement to preserve political influence and prevent the disintegration of support that could endanger a presidential candidate’s prospects.
“When you implement zoning, you designate regions within areas of predominant support. This strength remains concentrated and undisturbed, preventing interference with that voting bloc,” Ombaka explained. She cautioned that permitting multiple coalition parties to contest in influential districts results in “undermining” votes, causing voter disengagement, and fragmenting the electorate along partisan divisions.
The representative, who dedicated the day to encouraging constituents in Gem constituency, raised alarms about substantial impediments preventing citizens from registering to vote. Primary among these is an ongoing delay in distributing national identity cards from Nyayo House.
“Obtaining an ID presents a significant obstacle to citizens. That’s why voter registration becomes particularly challenging,” she observed, noting that many prospective registrants remain stalled awaiting their essential identification documents.
While she commended the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) for their presence at all registration centers, she characterized participation as “mixed,” with successful turnout in certain locations and minimal activity elsewhere.
Dr. Ombaka also conveyed grievances from local administrators concerning disorganized mobilization efforts and insufficient public information dissemination. With the 2027 elections approaching, she demanded an immediate “extension period” and a postponement of the registration deadline to accommodate those still processing their IDs.
“Political authority is not gained through words; it derives from voter registration and the IDs we possess,” Ombaka declared. “2027 is rapidly approaching. All preparations must be expedited to ensure we are adequately prepared.”