Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Gladys Wanga has dismissed claims by opposition leaders that the party has weakened following the death of its former leader, Raila Odinga, insisting the movement remains strong.
Raila died on October 15, 2025. Nearly a year later, internal wrangles have exposed divisions within ODM, with one faction leaning towards President William Ruto while another maintains that the party should remain firmly in the opposition.
Wanga spoke at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega, where she led senior party officials in commemorating the first anniversary of Raila's death.
She was accompanied by Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, Suna East MP Junet Mohamed and Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula.
The ODM chairperson also assured aspirants seeking various elective positions that the party's nomination process would be conducted fairly and transparently, amid growing political realignments ahead of the next General Election.
Meanwhile, Junet took aim at opposition leaders seeking to defeat President Ruto in the next election, dismissing their ambitions as daydreams.
Governor Barasa called on ODM members to shun divisive politics and unite behind Ruto's re-election bid, arguing that unity would be crucial in strengthening the political partnership.
Savula echoed the call, urging leaders from Western Kenya and Nyanza to establish a united political front in support of the President.
However, several elected ODM leaders, including MPs from Kakamega County, were conspicuously absent from the commemoration.
Those who did not attend included Butere MP Tindi Mwale and Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe.
The gathering comes as ODM continues to grapple with questions over its political direction and future alliances following Raila's death.
Wanga's remarks appeared aimed at reassuring supporters that the party remains organised and capable of mounting a strong electoral campaign.
The pledge of transparent nominations is also likely to be significant as aspirants position themselves for various seats, with internal competition threatening to deepen existing divisions.
The contrasting calls for opposition unity and support for Ruto further highlight the debate within ODM over whether to strengthen its cooperation with the President or maintain its traditional opposition role.
