The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) grassroots elections in Kakamega were abruptly halted on Thursday, August 28, due to a clash between Governor Fernandes Barasa and Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera over the voting method. Both leaders are vying for the powerful county chairperson position, with Barasa's camp insisting on the old queuing system while Nabwera's team demanded a secret ballot for transparency.

• The elections were called off by the Presiding Officer after efforts to broker a consensus failed.
• Governor Barasa accused opponents of attempting to manipulate the elections, stating, "And we are ready to protect and defend the ODM party so that those conmen who want to sell the party can be sent home."
• Nabwera alleged that Barasa boycotted the secret ballot, fearing defeat, stating, "ODM elections were cancelled because Barasa boycotted the secret ballot process and reiterated an outdated mlolongo system so that he could loot the votes to clinch the seat."