MP Kaluma, politician Ogada summoned for fighting in public

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has summoned seven politicians over the violence that rocked the party’s rally in Homa Bay late last month.

ODM’s National Elections Board (NEB) summoned Homa Bay Governor, Cyprian Awiti, Homa Bay Women Representative, Gladys Wanga, Homabay Town Member of Parliament, Peter Opondo Kaluma, Homa Bay Deputy Governor, Hamilton O. Orata, Kasipul Kabondo MP, Oyugi Magwanga, and political aspirants Washington Ogada and Enosh Bolo.

According to ODM, through its twitter account, the seven are expected to appear before the Board on Tuesday, December 13 to explain the violence that rocked party rally on November 27 in Homa Bay.

The rally was also attended by the party leader, Raila Odinga.

According to the party, should any of the leaders be found culpable of perpetrating the violence, they will face a disciplinary action.

“Sanctions for such misconduct range from warning to disqualification depending on gravity of the offence,” said ODM in a tweet.

“Those found culpable will be recommended for disciplinary action before the Party Disciplinary Committee for further interrogation.”

On November 27, MP Kaluma, and his political opponent Washington Ogaga exchanged blows and kicks despite the presence of the party leader, Raila Odinga.

Ogaga has expressed interest in the Homa Bay Town parliamentary seat in next year’s polls; a seat currently held by Kaluma.

Supporters of Governor Awiti and MP Magwanga further fueled the violence when each camp attempted to reach the podium to control the programme.

Homa Bay Women Rep, Gladys Wanga, tried to pacify the warring camps, but her efforts were in vain.

It took Odinga’s intervention to restore normalcy at the rally.

On December 1, Kaluma was charged with assault over the scuffle.

The MP appeared before Senior Resident Magistrate, Paul Mayoya Kaluma, at the Homa Bay Law Courts where he denied the charge and was released on a cash bail.

The two had been summoned by police to record statements.