Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has pushed back against recent remarks by Winnie Odinga regarding early political realignments ahead of the 2027 General Election, insisting that planning and engaging potential allies is neither premature nor wrong.
Speaking during an ODM rally, Wanga addressed comments made by Winnie Odinga and Raila Odinga Jr at Kibra’s Kamukunji Grounds, where Winnie cautioned party members against rushing into alliances and warned that some leaders were attempting to “copy-paste Baba” by positioning themselves as successors through premature political maneuvers.
Winnie argued that ODM should remain focused on its values and grassroots engagement rather than early succession politics.
In her response, Wanga defended ongoing talks with like-minded partners, saying coalition-building has always been a core principle preached by Raila Odinga himself. She dismissed claims that ODM leaders were moving too fast, describing such accusations as hypocritical.
“Is there any problem with starting conversations with like-minded partners?” Wanga posed to the crowd. She emphasized that early engagement does not amount to sharing out positions or pre-determining candidates. “This is not about distributing seats or deciding who gets what. No. It is about planning ahead,” she said.
The Homa Bay governor further noted that with the 2027 election cycle drawing closer, it would be irresponsible for the party to ignore strategic preparations. “Elections are not far away. Serious movements plan early,” she added.
The exchange highlights growing internal debate within ODM over strategy, timing, and leadership direction, even as party leaders publicly insist the focus remains unity, consultation, and safeguarding Raila Odinga’s political legacy.
