The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is set to launch a nationwide political mobilization campaign this weekend as the party begins laying the groundwork for the 2027 General Election.
ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga announced that the party’s political engagements will officially commence on Sunday, with a major rally at Kirembe Grounds in Kisumu County.
Speaking in Kisumu on Thursday, Wanga said the event is expected to draw thousands of ODM supporters and delegates from across the Nyanza region.
She was accompanied by Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko and Kisumu Central MP Dr. Joshua Oron during a meeting with Luo Council of Elders ahead of the rally.
She outlined the planned coordination of delegates, stating that participants from Siaya County will assemble in Holo before proceeding to the venue, while those from Homa Bay County will converge at Katito Trading Centre.
Supporters from Kisumu County will gather directly at Kirembe Grounds in Kisumu West Constituency.
Wanga noted that the rally will provide ODM leadership with an opportunity to engage supporters on the party’s political direction and strategic plans ahead of the next general election.
The ODM chairperson further stated that the party had resolved to remain part of the broad-based government arrangement until 2027, saying the decision was aimed at safeguarding the party’s political interests and enhancing its bargaining position.
Wanga emphasized the party’s significance in the region’s political landscape, calling for unity within ODM and the larger Luo community.
“It is the duty of the Luo community to protect ODM because that is where their political destiny lies,” she said.
Wanga also revealed that ODM would initiate negotiations with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), although discussions on the framework for engagement were still ongoing.
She added that the party remained open to collaboration with other political formations as it prepares for the 2027 elections.
She disclosed that ODM leader Dr. Oburu Oginga had been tasked with spearheading negotiations with UDA.
“At the same time, we will embark on strengthening the party structures moving forward,” Wanga added.
Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko echoed the call for unity, saying the Luo community stood to benefit from participation in the broad-based government.
On his part, Dr. Oron urged residents to attend the rally in large numbers, describing it as a significant political gathering.
He also assured attendees that adequate security measures had been put in place to ensure a peaceful event.
Meanwhile, the Luo Council of Elders has urged the Luo community to embrace unity and support efforts to strengthen the ODM party.
Led by Council Chairman Odungi Randa, the elders called on the community to rally behind ODM leader Dr. Oburu Oginga and Chairperson Gladys Wanga in advancing the interests of the community within the broad-based government framework.
The council also appealed to the youth in Kisumu to work closely with law enforcement agencies in addressing rising crime levels in the city.
Randa further encouraged ODM supporters and local youth to turn out in large numbers for the Sunday rally, dubbed “Kisumu Wabiro.”
Leave a comment