By KPC Reporter
Isaiah Abraham Ayaya has returned the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)’s nomination certificate for Kisa East, kakamega County, citing that the party issued it before full consultations.
Oyaya noted that he is already a life member of the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP).
The move comes at a time when ODM is grappling with waning popularity and growing cracks in its strongholds.
Suba South MP Caroli Omondi recently said ODM “has lost its prominence” because leaders are more interested in personal gain than serving the party’s ideals.
Omondi noted that regions like Nyanza and Western are drifting toward other parties.
Many observers agree that ODM is weighed down by leadership fatigue, with the same figures dominating its structures since its founding.
Younger politicians complain of exclusion, while perennial disputes over chaotic nominations and favoritism have driven many members to seek refuge in other political parties.
Recent opinion polls give weight to these concerns.
A TIFA survey in September 2025 placed ODM’s national support at 13%, down from much higher levels in previous elections, while a large share of Kenyans now identify with no party.
Analysts say Ayaya’s rejection of the nomination reflects a broader dissatisfaction among members with how nominations are handled and with the direction the party is headed.
 The fragmentation of the opposition has further thinned ODM’s support, leaving it vulnerable to rivals eager to fill the vacuum.
