ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga during a CBD businesswomen empowerment programme/FAITH MATETEODM national chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has warned against attempts to divide the party and its supporters, saying the region will not be swayed by political leaders seeking to dictate its political direction.
Speaking in Kisumu on Friday during a CBD businesswomen empowerment programme, Wanga said the party had learnt from its past political alliances and would approach future negotiations from a position of strength.
“Those who think they can come amongst us and decide for us will not divide us,” she said.
Wanga recalled ODM’s support for former President Uhuru Kenyatta, saying she felt the party was let down after backing his administration.
“We supported Uhuru all the way he betrayed us,” she claimed, adding that ODM would negotiate its future political partnerships.
She said ODM was preparing for the 2027 General Election while laying the groundwork for a longer-term political strategy aimed at positioning the party for the 2032/33 presidential contest.
Wanga sought to assure ODM members and aspirants that the party would conduct free and fair nominations ahead of the 2027 polls.
“As the chairperson, it is my responsibility to ensure that we have free and fair nominations that will lead to good candidates,” she said.
She said the party had numerous aspirants seeking ODM tickets for various elective positions.
Wanga rejected claims that ODM was losing its political influence, saying the party was strengthening its structures across the country.
“The ODM party will remain strong. I see them moving from one hotel to another, but there are no votes in hotels,” she said.
She challenged opposition politicians who say they will defeat the broad-based government in the next election to explain how they intended to win without a party, structures, an agenda or clear policies.
“How will you win against the broad-based team when you have no party, agenda or policies?” she posed.
Wanga urged ODM supporters to concentrate on strengthening the party and mobilising voters instead of being distracted by activities outside the party.
“As a party, we continue to build, prepare and organise ourselves. I ask our people not to join them. There is no way we will reach power without votes. To prepare and organise ourselves means getting the votes,” she said.
She said ODM would continue holding meetings and grassroots mobilisation activities as it prepares for the 2027 elections.
