Violence erupts during ODM grassroots polls in Homa Bay

Two youths from Ndhiwa Constituency in Homa Bay County were seriously injured on Monday, April 7, 2025, during a violent clash between rival groups at the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ward-level grassroots elections.

Elaine Omondi, 25, had his wrist severed after being attacked with a machete, while David Oluoch suffered deep neck cuts and a fractured left arm.

The attack occurred at Buche Primary School, where the election process was taking place, and was reportedly carried out by suspected hired goons.

According to Ndhiwa Police Commander John Losia, the incident occurred in the morning when a group of youths—believed to be outsiders—arrived in a Probox vehicle and began disrupting the election exercise.

The officer stated that the suspected “hired goons” were initially overpowered by delegates and local residents, prompting them to retaliate violently, resulting in the brutal attack on the two youths.

“Some youths who were hired from outside Ndhiwa constituency arrived at Buche Primary School with an intention to disrupt the event,” Losia said.

"They were, however, overpowered by the delegates and the locals who were present before attacking the two youths, causing them serious injuries," he added.

Losia stated that the youths eventually fled to an undisclosed location, and no arrests were made.

"This is a political issue, and I prefer not to get involved," he said.

"My responsibility is solely to ensure the safety of the presiding officer from any form of assault."

He urged party supporters to maintain calm and conduct the exercise peacefully, emphasizing that there was no justification for the use of force.

The injured individuals were initially taken to Ndhiwa Sub County Hospital for treatment before being referred to Homa Bay Teaching and Referral Hospital for more advanced care.

Dr. Nichodemus Odundo, the officer in charge at Ndhiwa Sub County Hospital, confirmed that the two individuals arrived at the hospital bleeding heavily.

Despite the severity of their injuries, the medical team was able to stabilize their condition before they were transferred to Homa Bay Level Four Hospital.

"One of the patients had his left wrist severed, while the other suffered a deep cut to the neck and a fractured left arm. However, we successfully managed to control the bleeding before referring them to HTRH for further treatment," he stated.

The ODM party is currently holding its ward elections to select delegates who will participate in the upcoming constituency grassroots elections set for April 9, 2024.