KISUMU, 11th Sept 2026 -The Orange Democratic Movement has unveiled a month-long programme of activities to commemorate its late party leader, Raila Odinga, even as National Chairperson Gladys Wanga assured members of a free, fair and credible nomination ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Addressing an empowerment forum for small-scale traders in Kisumu Central Constituency on Friday, Wanga said the party would conduct credible primaries to produce strong candidates validated by the people.
“As the chairperson, it is my responsibility to ensure that we have free and fair nominations that will lead to good candidates,” she said, noting that numerous aspirants were already seeking ODM tickets for various elective positions.
The forum was attended by three Kisumu gubernatorial aspirants; Dr. Joshua Oron, Aduma Owuor and Rosa Buyu prompting the chairperson to reassure voters that ODM would retain the county’s top seat through a transparent process.
Dismissing claims that the party was losing political influence, Wanga said ODM was strengthening its structures across the country by building strong grassroot networks.
The party has lined up commemorative events dubbed “Mwezi wa Baba” in October to honour Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Observances will include a moment of silence and candle-lighting, with activities slated for Kakamega on October 9, family-led celebrations from October 10 to 15 culminating in railles in the counties of Garissa, Kajiado, Turkana Mombasa and Nairobi between 17th to 31st of October.
As coalition talks between President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance and ODM take shape, Wanga said the party’s priority would be the deputy president’s position.
“As we lay down modalities for coalition talks, our main agenda as a party will be the deputy president’s position because ODM has capable men and women who are up to the task,” she affirmed.
The ODM chairperson also welcomed President Ruto’s planned four-day development tour of the Nyanza region, set to begin Sunday with a church service in Kisumu Central Constituency.
“On behalf of ODM, I want to take this opportunity to welcome Mr. President to Nyanza for his working tour and assure him that we are fully behind him now and going into the future,” she said, adding that his leadership style perfectly aligns with ODM’s principle of inclusivity.
The visit is among several the President has made to the region as he seeks to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 polls.
