Homa Bay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga is facing political backlash from a section of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders in Western Kenya over her remarks on the ongoing power-sharing talks between ODM and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The criticism was led by Khwisero Member of Parliament Christopher Aseka, who accused Wanga of overstepping her mandate by allegedly speaking on behalf of the Luhya community without proper consultation.
Aseka claimed that her comments regarding a proposed 50-50 power-sharing arrangement between ODM and UDA were made without involving key leaders from Western Kenya within the party.
Speaking during an interview, Aseka warned that Wanga had crossed a political red line by positioning herself as a spokesperson for the region. He insisted that the Luhya community has capable leaders who must be directly involved in any negotiations concerning their political future.
Among those he mentioned were Nairobi Senator Edwin W. Sifuna, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, and Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, whom he described as experienced figures capable of representing Western interests at the negotiating table.
Aseka further alleged that coalition discussions appear to be dominated by leaders from Luo-Nyanza, contrary to earlier assurances that the talks would be inclusive and broad-based.
He cautioned that sidelining key communities could destabilise the proposed ODM–UDA realignment ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The disagreement highlights emerging tensions within ODM as the party navigates complex coalition negotiations.
As political alignments continue to shift, calls for inclusivity and consensus are growing louder within the party ranks, with leaders urging unity to avoid internal divisions at a crucial time in Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
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