NAIROBI, Kenya — Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has secured a decisive victory in the Kasipul by-election, with outgoing Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga’s intense campaigning widely credited for galvanizing voter turnout and consolidating party support.
In Thursday’s by-election, ODM’s candidate clinched the seat with a clear margin, reinforcing the party’s dominance in the Nyanza region.
Local analysts say Wanga’s active involvement — including frequent rallies across the constituency, door-to-door mobilisation, and direct voter outreach — played a pivotal role in shaping the outcome.
Supporters say Wanga’s campaign resonated because she emphasised continuity, development priorities, and community inclusion — themes she had championed during her tenure as governor.
Her ability to mobilise grassroots networks and tap into long-standing local relationships in Homa Bay is said to have delivered results where many had expected a closer contest.
Political observers note that while the by-election was seen as a test of ODM’s resilience following recent national setbacks, the victory signals that the party remains deeply rooted in its traditional strongholds.
It could also provide momentum ahead of the 2027 general election, particularly in southwestern Kenya.
For the incoming MP, the win opens a mandate to continue on the development agenda that Wanga has been pushing in the region, including improved infrastructure, health, and social services provision.
Meanwhile, Wanga’s success in delivering the seat has further burnished her credentials as a key power broker within ODM and among Nyanza’s political elite.
