Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) National Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has publicly dismissed Siaya Governor James Orengo’s bid for the presidency in the 2027 General Election.
Wanga’s response comes shortly after Orengo formally declared his intention to run for the country’s top office during a burial ceremony in Homa Bay County, challenging ODM leaders who favor aligning with the current administration.
Addressing the media, Governor Wanga faulted Orengo’s declaration, characterizing the presidency as a high-stakes race that demands meticulous preparation, strategic alignment, and broader coalition-building rather than spontaneous proclamations.
Wanga argued that winning the presidency requires more than rhetorical stance, pointing out that even veteran politician Raila Odinga contested five times under robust coalitions. She added that Orengo currently lacks a viable roadmap or the required political infrastructure for a national campaign.
Rebuffing Orengo’s assertion that the Luo community lacks representation at the national negotiating table, Wanga emphasized that ODM remains the primary political vehicle representing the region’s interests and is actively engaging in strategic talks.
Wanga also highlighted confusion within the opposition-aligned Linda Mwananchi movement. She noted conflicting ambitions within the group, pointing out that both Governor Orengo and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna have been linked to presidential runs under the same banner.
The clash underscores widening political fissures within the ODM party and the broader Nyanza region as leaders navigate succession politics ahead of the 2027 polls. While Orengo positions himself as a staunch constitutional defender opposing the current administration, party leaders like Wanga continue to advocate for structured engagement through established party channels.
