Homa Bay governor Gladys Wanga has defended the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) involvement in the broad-based government, insisting the party remains committed to fighting for ordinary Kenyans.
Speaking during the ODM Economic Empowerment rally in Dandora, Embakasi North on Sunday, May 24, 2026, Wanga dismissed claims that ODM had gone silent on issues affecting wananchi after joining the government arrangement.
“We have heard people saying ODM joined the broad-based government and forgot the issues affecting ordinary wananchi. As the Orange party under the leadership of Raila Amolo Odinga, we have always fought for the interests of the people,” Wanga said.
She said ODM had previously stood with Kenyans during protests where some youths lost their lives, adding that compensation efforts for victims were ongoing.
“Our youths have been killed in the streets while fighting for wananchi and even now there is KSh2 billion set aside at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights for compensation for those who were affected. That is what we continue fighting for. The only thing we changed is the tactics and style of fighting for wananchi,” she stated.
On the rising fuel prices, Wanga said ODM had not remained silent as alleged by critics, noting that the party had engaged experts to address the issue.
“We know Kenyans are struggling because of fuel prices in the country. People are asking why ODM is quiet, but we are not silent. We are the ones who sent experts to look into and discuss the fuel issue,” she said.
She added that fuel prices were part of a global challenge but said ODM’s engagement within government was already yielding results.
“Fuel is a global issue, but because we are pushing from within, we have seen the President announce that by next month diesel prices will reduce by KSh10 and we will ensure there is enough fuel in the country at all times,” Wanga added.
The ODM chairperson also thanked supporters in Dandora and other regions for maintaining peace during recent protests.
“I want to thank our youths here in Dandora and everywhere ODM has support because recently there were hypocritical people trying to incite youths to burn property and destroy businesses. I thank ODM supporters because many of you stayed at home and allowed leaders to resolve the matter peacefully,” she said.
Wanga maintained that ODM remains united and is already preparing for the 2027 General Election.
“The Orange party remains one united party and we will move across every corner of Kenya to strengthen it because when 2027 comes, ODM will either form the government or be part of the coalition forming government. As for opposition politics, we are saying goodbye,” she said.
