Keep off upcoming by-elections in Nyanza, Governor Wanga tells UDA

Homa Bay Governor and the Orange Democratic Movement National Chairperson, Gladys Wanga, has called on the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to refrain from contesting in the upcoming by-election in Nyanza, in alignment with the spirit of the broad-based government agreement.

During the funeral of Ong’ondo Were on Friday, May 9, 2025, the governor emphasized the importance of cooperation, noting that ODM has no intention of clashing with their allies in Nyanza, despite the region's strong affiliation with the party.

"As the national chair of the ODM party, I have been clear about our stance on the broad-based arrangement. We are fully committed to it and stand by it. This is a promise we made to Baba and President William Ruto," the ODM chair reaffirmed.

"This area is undeniably an ODM stronghold. As we move forward, we will be contesting by-elections in Ugunja, Kasipul, and other regions. Our aim is clear: we do not seek to compete with our allies. We want to foster cooperation to ensure that these seats, which have always been ODM seats, remain with ODM, allowing us to advance as a united family."

Wanga also addressed previous comments that had sparked controversy, where she was criticized for suggesting that only ODM members should attend the slain MP's funeral.

However, she reaffirmed ODM’s commitment to defending its territory, stressing that the party would never back down in its unwavering support for its leader, Raila Odinga, and its position.

"In ODM, we stand firm for Baba. If you disrespect him, we will respond in kind. I stated that Homa Bay is an ODM zone, and the entire region is an ODM stronghold. We will defend and protect our party. Some misinterpreted my words, claiming I said only ODM members should attend Were's funeral," Wanga clarified.

"His family, like the entire region, spans from Mt. Kenya to the Lake. I would never say that. Everyone is welcome here."

These comments follow Wanga's earlier pledge not to let the ruling UDA undermine ODM's presence in its strongholds by making inroads into the region.

Speaking on Saturday, May 3, 2025, she issued a warning against political incitement in Nyanza and reiterated her determination to safeguard the party's influence in the region.

"As the national chair of the ODM party, I want to make it abundantly clear that Homa Bay County and the entire Nyanza region are ODM territories. The next time I hear 'UDA' being shouted in this region, we will not tolerate it; we will not accept it. It will not happen under my leadership as national chair of ODM," Wanga firmly stated.

The UDA party has gained notable traction in the region, particularly after President William Ruto inaugurated party offices in Suba South constituency, Homa Bay County, on Saturday, October 7, 2023.

A significant factor in UDA's growing influence in Nyanza has been the involvement of key figures like Silas Jakakimba, a former aide to Raila Odinga, and former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero, who previously contested the Homa Bay gubernatorial seat without success.