The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has awarded a direct nomination ticket to Harrison Kombe for the Magarini parliamentary seat in Kilifi County. The by-election is scheduled for November 27, 2025.
Direct Nomination Due to Lack of Competition
According to Emily Awita, chairperson of ODM’s National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC), Kombe was the only aspirant for Magarini. This meant party primaries were unnecessary.
“Magarini Constituency and Fafi Ward candidates were awarded direct tickets. Chewani, Kisa East, Purko, Angata Nanyokie, and Naanam Wards also had unopposed aspirants,” Awita said at Chungwa House.
Other candidates awarded direct ODM tickets include:
- Salimu Mohamed – Chewani Ward
- Thomas Eshuya Oyolo – Kisa East
- Daniel Naikuni – Purko
- Letoluai Loisia – Angata Nanyokie
- Feisal Gedi – Fafi Ward
- Mohammed Yussuf – Naanam Ward
Upcoming Primaries for Contested Seats
Awita assured ODM members that nominations for contested seats will be conducted transparently. Party primaries are scheduled from September 24 to 27, 2025.
The vacant seats still to be filled include Ugunja and Kasipul parliamentary constituencies.
- Ugunja became vacant after former MP Opiyo Wandayi was appointed Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum.
- Kasipul fell vacant after the fatal shooting of MP Ongondo Were in Nairobi in April 2025.
By-Elections to Draw National Attention
Political analysts expect the by-elections to attract wide attention. ODM is keen to maintain dominance in its strongholds while demonstrating fairness and democratic processes.
The party emphasized its commitment to strengthening democracy both within ODM and across the nation. Direct nominations like that of Harrison Kombe set the stage for a smooth and competitive by-election season in several constituencies.
