ODM and its core leaders have every right to regard Luo Nyanza as the
party’s political stronghold. Political parties, like football clubs, have home
grounds where they enjoy passionate and loyal support. But a genuine political
stronghold does not need barricades, intimidation or violence to survive.
The disturbing scenes witnessed in Homa Bay last weekend expose the ugly face of a politics increasingly terrified of competition. Those who genuinely believe in their popularity should welcome rivals and march confidently to the ballot. That is where political strength is tested—not through zoning, threats, heckling or political thuggery.
Zoning is nothing more than a primitive political tactic used by leaders who lack the courage to face competition. It insults voters by presuming they are political property, incapable of listening to alternatives and making independent choices.
No region belongs permanently to any party, politician or political dynasty. Voters are not chattels to be allocated like pieces on a chessboard.
If ODM is truly as dominant in Luo Nyanza as its leaders proclaim, it should have nothing to fear. Open the political arena, let competitors campaign freely and let the people decide.
Real political strength does not demand the eviction of rivals. It defeats them at the ballot. Anything else is fear masked as confidence.
