Homa Bay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga has assured party members that ODM will conduct free, fair and transparent nominations ahead of the 2027 General Election. She made the remarks during a memorial event for the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Kakamega on October 9, 2026. The gathering was part of ODM's Mwezi wa Baba programme, marking the first anniversary of Raila's death in October 2025. Wanga conveyed greetings from party leader Oburu Odinga and emphasised the importance of political power.
Wanga's comments come as ODM navigates questions about its future leadership, internal cohesion and political alliances following Raila's death. The party leadership remains committed to strengthening ODM's political standing. Wanga said, "ODM will conduct free, fair and transparent nominations. I have also brought greetings from our Party Leader Oburu Odinga, and as he says, hatuwezi kuwa bila power." Her remarks reflect ODM's efforts to remain influential nationally.
Wanga criticised former President Uhuru Kenyatta, questioning his ability to influence the outcome of future presidential elections. She recalled their previous political alliance, where Uhuru indicated he would hand over the presidency to Raila, but Raila never became president. Wanga expressed doubts about Uhuru's ability to help other opposition figures win the presidency, mentioning Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i and Wiper Democratic Movement leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
The Homa Bay governor also expressed confidence that President William Ruto would not be defeated politically through Uhuru's influence. Wanga's remarks reflected her personal assessment of Uhuru's political standing and the prospects of opposition figures ahead of the 2027 election. Her comments highlight two issues likely to shape ODM's political direction: the credibility of its internal nomination process and the alliances it pursues.
The Kakamega memorial was part of a series of activities organised by ODM under its Mwezi wa Baba programme in honour of Raila. The commemorations will culminate in a national memorial service at Kang'o ka Jaramogi in Bondo on October 15, 2026. Wanga's comments have sparked debate about ODM's future and its ability to remain a key player in Kenyan politics.
Earlier in the week, Wanga dismissed rumours circulating on social media about Oburu Odinga's health. Speculation emerged on Tuesday evening, October 6, suggesting that the ODM leader had died. Wanga confirmed that she had spoken to Oburu and that he was in good health, recovering after a medical trip abroad and a routine check-up at The Nairobi Hospital.
As ODM prepares for the next electoral cycle, Wanga's comments have set the tone for the party's approach to the 2027 polls. With a focus on credible nominations and strategic alliances, ODM aims to maintain its influence in Kenyan politics. The party's efforts will be closely watched as it navigates the post-Raila era.
Key points
- ODM will conduct free, fair and transparent nominations ahead of the 2027 General Election.
- Gladys Wanga questioned Uhuru Kenyatta's ability to influence the outcome of future presidential elections.
- ODM is commemorating the first anniversary of Raila Odinga's death with a series of activities under its Mwezi wa Baba programme.
