Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and other ODM leaders recently visited Kisumu, where they rallied residents to support President William Ruto's re-election in the upcoming General Election. During a fundraising drive at St. Francis Catholic Church Rangenya in Kisumu county, Wanga and other leaders emphasized that Ruto's administration has demonstrated a commitment to development in various parts of the country. This, they believe, makes him a suitable candidate for re-election.
Wanga and the ODM leaders expressed their confidence in Ruto's leadership, stating that the opposition lacks a clear agenda and plan. According to Wanga, Ruto has stood with them and has initiated development projects in their region. The leaders also took the opportunity to criticize Wiper Patriotic Front Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, citing his decision to work with DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua, who was previously impeached as Deputy President, as a reason for their fallout.
The rift between ODM and Kalonzo Musyoka stems from his collaboration with Rigathi Gachagua. Wanga acknowledged Musyoka's past association with Baba Raila Odinga but expressed disappointment in his recent alliances. The ODM leaders present at the gathering urged Kisumu and Luo Nyanza residents to support Ruto, asserting that his government has been beneficial to the region.
ODM's decision to support Ruto's re-election is rooted in a broad-based agreement made with his administration before the passing of its leader, Raila Odinga, in October 2025. However, this arrangement has led to internal conflicts within the party, resulting in the expulsion of its former Secretary General and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. Sifuna has since joined the Linda Mwananchi movement and emerged as its presidential candidate.
Edwin Sifuna's rise in the political landscape has been swift, with many now considering him a potential presidential contender. Despite this development, ODM maintains that it remains a partner in the government and will continue to support Ruto's re-election. The party's stance has been met with mixed reactions, with some members expressing dissent.
The ODM leaders' visit to Kisumu and their endorsement of Ruto's re-election have sparked discussions about the region's political dynamics. The area has been a significant battleground in Kenyan politics, with various leaders vying for influence. Wanga and other ODM leaders' show of support for Ruto is seen as a strategic move to consolidate support in the region.
As the General Election approaches, the political landscape in Kenya continues to evolve. The dynamics within ODM and the emergence of new players like Edwin Sifuna are expected to shape the country's political discourse. The outcome of these developments will likely have a significant impact on the election's results and the future of Kenyan politics.
Key points
- ODM leaders, including Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, rally Kisumu residents to support President William Ruto's re-election.
- The decision to support Ruto stems from a broad-based agreement made with his administration, despite internal conflicts within ODM.
- The move has sparked discussions about the region's political dynamics, with various leaders vying for influence in the lead-up to the General Election.
