Wanga Asks ODM Supporters to Shun UDA and Hand Party 2027 Elective Seats

Wanga Asks ODM Supporters to Shun UDA and Hand Party 2027 Elective Seats

Gladys Wanga has urged supporters of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to adopt a coordinated voting strategy in future elections, calling on the party’s grassroots base to rally behind ODM candidates across nearly all elective seats ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speaking during the ODM Linda Ground Special Edition meeting held in Melelo in Narok County on Saturday, Wanga said the party must strengthen its political presence nationwide to increase its influence in future political negotiations.

Addressing a crowd of party supporters and leaders, Wanga outlined a strategy commonly referred to as the “five-piece voting pattern,” where voters support candidates from the same party across multiple elective positions.

She urged ODM supporters to vote for ODM candidates for Member of County Assembly (MCA), Member of Parliament, Women Representative, Senator and Governor seats, while also positioning the party to claim the Deputy President position in the next electoral cycle.

“We should not go to the negotiating table when we are afraid. We should look for all these seats right from the MCA, MP, Women Rep, Senator and Governor so that our party can also be strong,” Wanga said.

“When you go to the negotiation table with an empty bucket, you will not be given anything,” she added.

The ODM chairperson framed the call as part of a broader mobilisation campaign aimed at consolidating the party’s bargaining power in the country’s evolving political alliances, particularly with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

According to Wanga, ODM intends to maintain a strong presence in elective positions across its traditional strongholds and other regions, while leaving the presidential slot to its political partners within the broader coalition framework.

Her remarks were echoed by Junet Mohamed, the Minority Leader in the National Assembly, who told supporters that ODM should remain competitive in all elective seats.

Party leaders present at the meeting emphasised that the strategy is intended to ensure ODM maintains political relevance and influence in shaping the next government.

At the centre of the mobilisation effort is the party’s “Tunataka Power” campaign, which has intensified calls among ODM supporters for the party to secure the Deputy President position and a significant share of senior government appointments.

However, the push for the deputy presidency has sparked debate within the country’s political landscape. Some supporters of Kithure Kindiki have interpreted the campaign as a potential challenge to his political influence and future prospects.

Despite the emerging tensions, Wanga reassured ODM supporters that the party remains committed to working within the framework of the current broad-based government arrangement.

She noted that cooperation between ODM and UDA leaders would help advance key governance reforms, including the implementation of the NADCCO report and the 10-point Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two political formations.

Beyond political matters, Wanga also addressed the severe flooding that has affected several parts of the country following heavy rains in recent days.

The governor expressed solidarity with residents in flood-affected areas, particularly in Nairobi, where recent downpours have caused widespread disruption and damage.

“I also wish to express solidarity with the people of Nairobi and other counties experiencing similar challenges,” Wanga said.

She warned that climate-related disasters are becoming increasingly frequent and called for stronger coordination between national and county governments to mitigate their impact.

“Climate-related disasters continue to remind us of the urgent need for stronger preparedness, resilient infrastructure and responsible environmental stewardship,” she added.

“As leaders and citizens, we must work together to protect lives, safeguard our environment and build communities that are better prepared to withstand extreme weather events.”

Political analysts say the remarks highlight ODM’s early efforts to position itself strategically ahead of the 2027 elections while balancing its current cooperation with the ruling coalition.

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Wanga Asks ODM Supporters to Shun UDA and Hand Party 2027 Elective Seats