Gladys Wanga Reassures ODM Members of Party Unity After Raila Odinga’s Death
She spoke after the ODM Central Management Committee (CMC) meeting, where Secretary General Edwin Sifuna reaffirmed the party’s commitment to Odinga’s.
Leaders and supporters from across the entire region will gather at the event to remember Odinga's giant contribution to Kenya's democracy and social justice. Photo/courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) National Chairperson Gladys Wanga has assured party supporters that ODM remains strong and united despite the passing of its founder leader, Raila Odinga. Addressing the World Food Day celebrations at Kendu Bay Show Ground, Wanga maintained that the party would not disintegrate but instead continue to defend the ideals and vision of its late leader.
Wanga called on the members of ODM to be strong, calm, and move forward together as a team. She once again stated that the 20th-anniversary celebrations of the party, set to be held in Mombasa, would continue as scheduled. She indicated that the occasion would not just be a commemoration of Odinga’s life but also a demonstration of ODM’s resilience.
“The ODM party is built on a strong foundation of unity, democracy, and development. We will continue marching together and ensure the vision of our late leader does not die,” she said. Wanga encouraged members to use the party as a bargaining tool to negotiate political alliances ahead of the 2027 general election, noting that ODM’s strength remains a kingmaker in Kenya’s politics.
The Governor of Homa Bay also acknowledged Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga for stepping in as the acting party leader following the passing of Odinga. She indicated his leadership was needed to guide the party during this period of mourning and transition.
Wanga also announced that ODM members in Homa Bay County will hold a special memorial service next Wednesday at Raila Odinga Stadium to honor and celebrate the life of the fallen leader. Leaders and supporters from across the entire region will gather at the event to remember Odinga’s giant contribution to Kenya’s democracy and social justice.
She spoke after the ODM Central Management Committee (CMC) meeting, where Secretary General Edwin Sifuna reaffirmed the party’s commitment to Odinga’s pursuit of a united nation. Sifuna indicated the committee resolved to maintain cooperation with the government on issues that promote national unity and development, in line with Odinga’s vision of harmony and cooperation.
Sifuna also announced that ODM will hold memorial services in various regions as part of national tributes across the country. The first events will take place in Magarini, Kilifi County, on November 2nd and 3rd, and more ceremonies will be held in Homa Bay and Migori on November 5th and 6th.
He also confirmed that the long-awaited 20th-anniversary celebrations will go on from November 14th to 16th with a series of activities aimed at solidifying party unity and building solidarity among members.
Wanga’s confirmation and the CMC resolutions are a pointer that ODM is poised to complete Odinga’s legacy not with disintegration but with renewed vigor, so that the party remains a central player in Kenya’s political destiny.
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