HOMA BAY, Kenya — Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has strongly defended the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), maintaining that the party remains a dominant political force despite mounting internal divisions and the recent departure of a faction led by Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna.
Addressing concerns over the party’s stability following the death of former leader Raila Odinga, Wanga insisted that the exit of Sifuna and his allies has not dented ODM’s grassroots support base. She asserted that the vast majority of elected leaders have chosen to remain loyal amidst the political transition.
According to the governor, most lawmakers who recently shifted allegiances had already begun distancing themselves while Raila was still alive, noting that only four MPs have formally defected since his passing.
Wanga highlighted that ODM still commands a formidable presence in Parliament, boasting a backing of more than 100 members of parliament ready to rally behind the party.
On the gubernatorial front, Wanga pointed out that out of the 15 governors originally elected under the ODM banner, 13 remain firmly within its ranks, with only two having crossed over to other political formations.
While acknowledging that Raila’s demise temporarily unsettled the party’s structures, Wanga expressed confidence that ODM has successfully weathered the storm. She emphasized that the party has regained its footing, proving its resilience as it prepares to navigate Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
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