ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga has warned against attempts to divide the party and its supporters, saying political leaders would not be allowed to dictate the region’s political direction.
Speaking in Kisumu on Friday during a CBD businesswomen empowerment programme, Wanga said ODM had learnt from past political alliances and would approach future negotiations from a position of strength.
A fundraiser held at the YMCA Grounds in Kisumu brought together leaders and stakeholders to support traders and small businesses seeking to expand and remain sustainable.
The event was hosted by Kisumu Central MP Dr Joshua Oron and attended by Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor, Kisumu West MP Rozaah Buyu, County Assembly Speaker Elisha Oraro, members of the Kisumu County Assembly, political aspirants and other stakeholders.
The leaders raised Sh11.6m to support traders and help them strengthen their businesses.
“Those who think they can come amongst us and decide for us will not divide us,” she said.
Wanga, who is the Homabay Governor, cited ODM’s support for former President Uhuru Kenyatta, saying the party felt betrayed after backing his administration.
“We supported Uhuru all the way and he lied to us. He betrayed us,” she said.
She said ODM would determine its future political partnerships and was preparing for the 2027 general election while also developing a longer-term strategy aimed at positioning the party for the 2032 presidential contest.
Wanga also assured party members and aspirants that ODM would conduct free and fair nominations ahead of the 2027 elections.
“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 already had numerous aspirants seeking ODM tickets for various elective positions.
Wanga dismissed claims that ODM was losing political influence, saying the party was strengthening its structures across the country.
“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 planned to do so without strong party structures, a clear agenda or policies.
“How will you win against the broad-based team when you have no party, agenda or policies?” she said.
Wanga urged ODM supporters to focus on strengthening the party and mobilising voters rather than being distracted by political activities outside it.
“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.
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