PAWA: ODM Reaffirms Commitment to Broad-Based Government at Kisumu Mega Rally

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party  staged a major political show of strength in Kisumu on Sunday, drawing thousands of supporters to Kirembe Grounds in a rally that party leaders described as a demonstration of unity and renewed political resolve.

The ODM leadership, led by Party Leader Dr. Oburu Odinga and Party Chairperson Governor Gladys Wanga, arrived at the venue shortly before 2 p.m. to a rousing reception from enthusiastic supporters.

Earlier in the day, party officials and supporters conducted a victory procession through Kisumu town, with crowds dressed in the party’s signature orange colours lining the streets and accompanying the convoy for several kilometres.

Despite the sweltering heat, hundreds of supporters remained at the venue for hours, underscoring their commitment to the party and its leadership.

The gathering was attended by several elected leaders, including Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o and Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa.

Dr. Oburu while addressing the supporters mphasized the need for ODM to strengthen its political base and increase its support nationwide in order to negotiate from a position of strength within the country’s political landscape.

He urged members of the Luo community and ODM supporters across the region to remain united behind the party.

Wanga reiterated ODM’s commitment to engaging the Kenya Kwanza administration through dialogue rather than street protests.

She called for the full implementation of the party’s 10-point agenda, including compensation for victims of police brutality and post-election violence.

Wanga raised concerns about the high cost of living and soaring fuel prices, saying the party would continue pushing the government to address the economic challenges facing ordinary Kenyans.

“ODM would pursue its objectives through engagement and constructive participation in governance,” she said.

During the rally, ODM issued a series of resolutions outlining its political stance, governance priorities and national concerns.

The party reaffirmed the unity of its supporters, declaring that the community remains indivisible and that political and development matters will continue to be pursued through ODM structures.

ODM party further expressed confidence in its leadership and governing organs, pledging continued support for decisions made by the Special National Delegates Convention (SNDC), the Central Committee and the National Executive Council (NEC).

The party endorsed key party officials, including Deputy Party Leaders Governors Simba Arati and Abdulswamad Nassir, alongside Chairperson Gladys Wanga, while calling on members to remain united and adhere to party decisions.

On national politics, the party reaffirmed its commitment to remaining within the broad-based government arrangement, saying it would continue building strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening its political influence and ultimately capturing power in future elections.

“We reaffirm our commitment to staying in the broad-based government and building partnerships to capture power now and in the future,” Dr. Oburu said.

Further, the party paid tribute to the late former ODM leader Raila Odinga, describing him as a towering political figure whose legacy continues to shape the party’s ideology and vision.

“We remain committed to Raila Odinga’s ideals of social democracy, devolution, constitutionalism and the rule of law,” Wanga said.

On the economy, the party acknowledged the financial pressures facing Kenyan households, particularly rising fuel prices, and expressed hope that government interventions would help ease the burden amid global economic uncertainties, including tensions in the Middle East.

The party officials also expressed concern over safety standards in learning institutions following the recent Utumishi Academy tragedy in Gilgil.

ODM called for an urgent review of recommendations made by previous commissions and committees on school safety to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“We call for a speedy review of the implementation status of all recommendations of previous committees and commissions formed to look into safety in schools,” the party said in its resolutions.

The Kisumu rally marked one of ODM’s largest political gatherings in the region in recent years and served as a platform for the party to reaffirm its unity, governance agenda and long-term political strategy.