Gladys Wanga’s New Stand on 2027 Support Leaves Ruto Camp Uneasy

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Homabay County Governor, Her Excellency Gladys Wanga, has sparked intense political debate after issuing a new statement that appears to shift her earlier position regarding President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid.

Wanga, who has previously been on record suggesting that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) might back Ruto for a second term, now says the party’s support is limited—and strictly tied to the ongoing broad-based government arrangement.

Speaking during the ODM 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa, Wanga clarified that the party’s cooperation with President Ruto will last only until 2027, after which ODM will independently decide its political direction.

According to Wanga, ODM’s current engagement with the Kenya Kwanza administration is strategic and designed to ensure national cohesion and stability within the broad-based government framework. She emphasized that the collaboration should not be mistaken for a long-term endorsement of Ruto’s political ambitions.

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“We are working with the President under the broad-based government for the sake of the country,” Wanga told the gathering. “But come 2027, the Orange Democratic Party will sit down, review the political landscape, and make its own decisions. Nothing is guaranteed.”

Her remarks have stirred intense discussions both online and within political circles. Many Kenyans saw the statement as a major shift from her earlier signals that ODM could support Ruto’s re-election.

Analysts say the new declaration signals a reawakening of ODM’s internal political confidence, especially after renewed calls from party leaders to reclaim the party’s autonomy and influence ahead of 2027.

The development is also viewed as a potential setback for President Ruto, who has been keen on consolidating support across opposition strongholds and building a broad national coalition ahead of the next election. ODM’s hesitation implies that Ruto will now need to renegotiate political goodwill—nothing is assured.

“There is no blank cheque for 2027,” a senior ODM official whispered during the event, reinforcing Wanga’s message.

With the political temperature gradually rising, Wanga’s statement may mark the beginning of more assertive posturing as parties start positioning themselves for one of the most anticipated elections in Kenya’s history.

For now, ODM remains part of the broad-based government, but its long-term loyalties appear to be firmly back in the hands of its own leadership—and subject to change as 2027 approaches.