ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga has demanded that the party follow up on its resolution to initiate structured talks with like-minded parties ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking in Busia County on Saturday, January 17, 2026, the Homa Bay Governor emphasised that the party must remain united and strengthen its voice to secure a bigger role and greater influence in any future political deals leading up to the 2027 elections.

No time to waste!

“As the party’s Central Management Committee, we met in Kilifi and stated clearly that political parties are formed for the sole purpose of capturing power, and we have no time to waste,” she said.

“We told our party leader to forge ahead because we are already in 2026, with elections in 2027. We have no time to waste. We have to arrange our affairs and engage like-minded parties like UDA and secure our stake as a major party.”

Linda Ground Initiative

The Chairperson also praised the ongoing Operation Linda Ground initiative, launched on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, during a public consultative forum in Kibra, describing it as critical to the party’s grassroots outreach.

She stressed the importance of members at the lower levels in building the party’s strength through grassroots leadership.

“We are here to strengthen the party. If we do it right, there is no door or window we cannot enter. The responsibility lies with you, the grassroots people. I want to assure you that we will ensure you are well taken care of as our agents on the ground,” she added.

Wanga further lauded the delegates, leaders, and members from across Busia County who unitedly endorsed the Central Committee’s resolutions. She stated that the collective mandate sets their course to initiate structured talks for a pre-election coalition, assess the implementation of the 10-Point Agenda, and revitalise the party’s nationwide grassroots network.

The Linda Ground event was graced by party leader Oburu Oginga and area leaders led by the governor, Paul Nyongesa Otuoma, and Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo.

Other leaders in the ODM entourage included Dagoretti MP Beatrice Elachi, Migori Senator Eddy Oketch, and Vihiga Governor Wilberforce Otichillo, all of whom were donning ODM party colours.