Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) national chairperson Gladys Wanga has underscored the party’s commitment to strengthening its grassroots presence as it prepares for high-stakes negotiations ahead of the 2027 polls.
Speaking in Muhoroni Sub-County, Wanga—who also serves as Homa Bay governor—emphasized that ODM will push for a 50-50 power-sharing agreement in any coalition talks.
“If they take half, ODM also takes half. If they take the Presidency, the Deputy is ODM. That is how we will talk as we move forward,” she told residents.
Wanga noted that the discussions will not only revolve around political positions but also address pressing issues affecting ordinary Kenyans. She reminded supporters that ODM remains a major party, with its leadership already given the green light to negotiate during a recent special delegates’ conference.
She dismissed claims of internal division, insisting that ODM still commands loyalty from the majority of its elected leaders and will remain united beyond 2027.
“People who divide Kenyans on tribal grounds, people of insults, people who do not understand themselves—those are people we cannot talk to,” she said, referring to the broader opposition landscape.
However, in the public eye, ODM appears to be grappling with a significant split following the death of its longtime leader Raila Odinga. The party is now divided into two main factions over whether to align with President William Ruto’s “broad-based government.”
On one side, the pro-Broad-Based Faction—led by Dr. Oburu Oginga, alongside governors Abdulswamad Sharrif Nassir and Gladys Wanga—supports working with the Kenya Kwanza administration and is open to a pre-election pact.
On the other side, the anti-Broad-Based Faction—fronted by Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Winnie Odinga, and Babu Owino—argues that ODM should maintain its independence and opposition identity.
Political pundits have however pointed out that a split ODM only serves to promote the chances of incumbent Ruto winning a second term.
