ODM to review defeat in Ugenya and Embakasi South by-elections

After the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) lost in Ugenya
and Embakasi by-elections, the party has issued a statement saying it will look
into the double defeat to identify what they could have done differently.

Pat of the statement read, “The party will certainly review
its performance in the two by-elections with a view to establishing what could
have been done differently.”

It went on to add that, “…We particularly thank the voters
and candidates for the decorum, civility and respect that prevailed throughout
the campaigns and on the Election Day…”

Jubilee Party exited the race in the two areas as a show of
respect for the handshake deal between President Kenyatta and Raila Odinga.

ODM’s candidate in Ugenya Christopher Karan
lost to David Ochieng of Movement for Democratic change while Embakasi’s Irshad
Sumra was floored by Wiper’s Julius Mawathe.

The big wins have elicited mixed reaction from different political
personalities including wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka who said Jubilee should not
take credit for the win in Embakasi South Constituency.

Among those who sent congratulatory messages was the Deputy
President William Ruto. Through his Twitter handle he said, “ Congratulations
Ochieng (Ugenya) & Mawathe (Embakasi ) for your God given victory…The
hustler nation has spoken, and the people have decided…”