UDA grassroots elections in Kisumu record strong turnout across 761 centres
Grassroots elections by the United Democratic Alliance in Kisumu County began with strong voter turnout across hundreds of polling centres, signalling growing political participation in the region.
Minor challenges quickly resolved
Ayogi said the exercise has largely been smooth, with only isolated challenges reported in a few areas including Masogo Primary School and parts of Kisumu West. He explained that the issues were resolved after consultations with government officials.
"We had a challenge at Masogo Primary School in Nyando, but it was sorted out after consultations with the County Commissioner and the Director of Education. A few places like Kisumu West also had challenges, but they were resolved," he said.
The main challenge reported involved delays in capturing some voters' identification details using digital kits, which caused temporary queues at some polling stations.
Digital voting and online mobilisation
The elections are being conducted digitally, with mobilisation largely driven through online platforms, including WhatsApp groups connecting polling officials and party members across Kisumu and the wider Nyanza region.
Ayogi urged residents to participate in large numbers, emphasising the importance of grassroots involvement in leadership selection.
"I would like to invite all residents of Kisumu County to go to their respective polling centres to participate because it is your right to elect leaders of your choice," he said, adding that the turnout demonstrates growing rejection of political zoning.
Leaders praise transparency of the exercise
At Victoria Primary School, acting UDA Kisumu County Vice Chairperson Beatrice Amondi described the elections as transparent and encouraging.
Amondi, who is vying for the women's representative position in Kisumu, said she was pleased with the turnout and the conduct of the election.
"I'm very delighted to see quite a number of voters turn out here to exercise their democratic right. It is a free, fair, and credible election, and the exercise has been smooth so far," she said.
Although some polling stations started late due to minor logistical issues, she confirmed the situation had been resolved and voting was proceeding normally.
The grassroots elections are expected to play a key role in shaping the party's local leadership structures, with officials expressing optimism over the high level of participation witnessed across Kisumu County.
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