Gladys Wanga Pledges Credible ODM Nominations, Questions Uhuru’s Influence Ahead of 2027

Homa Bay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga has pledged that the party will conduct free, fair and transparent nominations ahead of the 2027 General Election, while questioning former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s influence over opposition politics.

Wanga made the remarks on Friday, October 9, 2026, during a memorial event for the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Kakamega. The gathering was among activities organised under ODM’s Mwezi wa Baba programme to mark the first anniversary of Raila’s death in October 2025.

Addressing supporters, Wanga reaffirmed ODM’s commitment to remaining politically influential nationally, conveying greetings from party leader Oburu Odinga and emphasising the importance of political power.

Wanga Promises Free and Fair ODM Nominations

Wanga assured party members that ODM would conduct credible nominations as aspirants begin positioning themselves for various elective seats ahead of the 2027 polls.

She said the party leadership remained committed to strengthening ODM’s political standing as it navigates the period following Raila’s death.

“ODM will conduct free, fair and transparent nominations. I have also brought greetings from our Party Leader Oburu Odinga, and as he says, hatuwezi kuwa bila power,” she said.

Her remarks come as ODM continues to navigate questions about its future leadership, internal cohesion and political alliances following the death of its long-serving leader.

Wanga Questions Uhuru’s Political Influence

The Homa Bay governor also criticised former President Uhuru Kenyatta, arguing that his past political partnership with ODM raised questions about his ability to influence the outcome of future presidential elections.

Wanga recalled that during their previous political alliance, Uhuru had indicated that he intended to hand over the presidency to Raila. However, Raila never became president despite their partnership.

“President Uhuru has played with us a lot as ODM. When we used to walk with him, he said he would not give us anything because he will hand over presidency to Baba,” Wanga said.

Drawing on that history, she questioned whether Uhuru could now help other opposition figures win the presidency.

She specifically mentioned Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and Wiper Democratic Movement leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

“If he couldn’t make Baba President, then how will he make Sifuna, Matiang’i and Kalonzo president?” she posed.

Wanga also expressed confidence that President William Ruto would not be defeated politically through Uhuru’s influence.

Her remarks reflected her personal assessment of the former president’s political standing and the prospects of opposition figures ahead of the 2027 election.

ODM Prepares for Raila’s First Anniversary

The Kakamega memorial was part of a series of activities organised by ODM under its Mwezi wa Baba programme in honour of Raila.

The commemorations are scheduled to culminate in a national memorial service at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo on October 15, 2026.

As the party prepares for the next electoral cycle, Wanga’s comments highlight two issues likely to shape its political direction: the credibility of its internal nomination process and the alliances it pursues in its effort to remain influential nationally.

Wanga Addresses Speculation About Oburu’s Health

Earlier in the week, Wanga also moved to dismiss rumours circulating on social media about Oburu Odinga’s health.

Speculation emerged on Tuesday evening, October 6, suggesting that the ODM leader had died.

In a statement posted on X, Wanga said she had spoken to Oburu that evening and confirmed that he was in good health.

She explained that he was recovering following a medical trip abroad and a routine check-up at The Nairobi Hospital.