Wanga explains why Luo must stay inside ODM and warns against efforts to divide community
By Faith Lagat, May 31, 2026Homa Bay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga has defended the Luo community’s continued support for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the broad-based government arrangement between President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking at the Kisumu Wabiro Mega Rally held at Kirembe Grounds on Sunday, May 31, 2026, Wanga urged residents to reject divisive politics and remain united under ODM.
“Anyone who tries to divide us as a society, we will not allow,” she said. “We are in ODM, the greatest party from Tana River to Ntaike in Migori. We are in ODM and we will support it as our party.”
Her remarks came as ODM leaders and supporters gathered in Kisumu for a political rally attended by leaders from across the Nyanza region and other parts of the country.
Government appointments and SGR pledge
Wanga said ODM’s support for the broad-based government was informed by what she described as tangible gains secured through cooperation between Raila and President Ruto.
“We are in this broad-based government because the other government, when we united with them, fooled us. They promised us the government, only to later deny us. But President Ruto, since his handshake with Raila, has given us Opiyo Wandayi and John Mbadi in government and has also promised the SGR to reach Kisumu,” she said.
“Mahali Baba alituacha ndio kuna matunda.”
The governor said residents should focus on opportunities and development initiatives associated with the current political arrangement.
The rally followed a major roadshow through Kisumu City that attracted thousands of ODM supporters. The procession began in Nyamasaria before passing through the central business district and Kondele Roundabout and ending at Kirembe Grounds.
Supporters carrying ODM flags and party colours lined major streets as leaders mobilised support ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Leaders call for unity
Earlier in the day, ODM leaders led by Oburu Oginga paid a courtesy call on Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o at his Ratta home in Seme.
Addressing the delegation, Nyong’o said unity remains one of the party’s key strengths.
“A strong people are not those who speak with one voice on every issue. A strong people are those who remain united even when they disagree,” he said.
Among leaders present were Simba Arati, Ochilo Ayacko, Opiyo Wandayi, John Mbadi, Samuel Atandi, Tom Ojienda and Joshua Oron.
Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko said the Luo Council of Elders had endorsed continued unity under ODM while encouraging engagement with other political formations.
Leaders at the rally said discussions focused on infrastructure development, devolution, healthcare, youth empowerment, agriculture and compensation for victims of post-election violence as the party begins preparations for the 2027 General Election.