HOMA BAY, Kenya – Homa Bay Governor and ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga has spoken out on the future of the Orange Democratic Movement following the death of party leader Raila Odinga, calling for unity, internal consolidation and renewed commitment to the ideals he championed.
In a New Year statement reflecting on 2025 and looking ahead to 2026, Wanga described Odinga’s passing as a defining moment for the country and the party, saying it left a profound leadership and moral void for millions of Kenyans who looked up to him for guidance.
“Baba was our moral compass and our North Star,” she said, adding that his death placed a solemn responsibility on ODM leaders to protect and advance a legacy rooted in sacrifice, justice and service to the people.
As the party navigates the post-Raila era, Wanga urged ODM members to embrace unity while allowing room for internal debate, saying differing opinions should be seen as a strength rather than a weakness.
“Unity is not uniformity,” she said, noting that robust debate, guided by respect and consensus, has always been part of ODM’s tradition.
She called on party members to rally behind the leadership of Dr Oburu Oginga and make 2026 a year of organisation and consolidation.
Wanga said ODM’s institutions were strong enough to harmonise divergent views and translate them into collective progress, stressing that the party’s future depended on leaders resisting fear, confronting difficult decisions and working together.
Beyond party politics, the Homa Bay governor reaffirmed her administration’s development priorities, pledging to intensify service delivery across the county in the coming year.
She said healthcare, water, roads, education, and support for farmers and traders would remain key focus areas.
“No part of Homa Bay will be left behind, from Kiwa Island to Kona Kajabedo,” she said, describing the county as one of “endless potential”.
Wanga also pledged to amplify the voices of women, youth and minorities, saying ODM remained committed to confronting systemic barriers that limit access to opportunity and dignity.
As she closed her message, Wanga urged party members to draw strength from Raila Odinga’s values rather than seek rigid instructions for the future, saying his vision, discipline and courage should guide the next phase of leadership.
“This is the moment for the party to rise,” she said, expressing hope that 2026 would mark a year of unity, service and renewed optimism for Kenya.
