Nairobi — October 27, 2025

Kenya’s opposition party, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has said that Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga could be considered as President William Ruto’s running mate in 2027 — but only through proper party processes and approval.

The clarification came on Monday from Abdulswamad Nassir, ODM’s deputy party leader, who said that while the idea had stirred public speculation, no formal discussions had been held within the party.

“Would I propose her to be the Deputy President? First of all, I would have a sit-down with her and ask if she would be interested,” Nassir told NTV in an early-morning interview. “If she said yes, that has to go to the Central Management Committee for deliberation.”

Party Discipline and Internal Democracy

Nassir, who is also the Governor of Mombasa County, said any decision on a running mate — whether for Ruto or another candidate — would be guided by data, regional balance, and internal consensus.

“We’ll discuss it internally, weigh ourselves, and ask whether there would be someone else who would make a better pick,” he said. “Numbers have to play out.”

However, Nassir clarified that Governor Wanga had not expressed any interest in the position and dismissed suggestions that she was already being groomed for a national role.

Focus on Reorganisation, Not Succession

The ODM deputy leader also downplayed the growing buzz around 2027 succession politics, saying it was too early for running mate debates.

“Our focus now is on reorganising and realigning after the passing of our party leader, Raila Odinga,” he said. “That’s where our energy is.”

Nassir made it clear that he himself had no interest in seeking a national office, saying he was “satisfied serving the people of Mombasa.”

ODM–UDA Cooperation Still Undefined

Addressing speculation about ODM’s evolving relationship with Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Nassir insisted there was no coalition agreement between the two parties — only a framework for collaboration within the Broad-based Government.

“There’s no crisis in ODM,” he said firmly. “As it stands, ODM is part of the Broad-based Government. But we do not have a coalition agreement.”

He added that any future cooperation would depend on how well the 10-point Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year is implemented.

High-Level Meeting Amid Political Tension

Nassir’s remarks came just hours before ODM’s Central Committee was scheduled to meet in Nairobi, in what insiders described as a crucial strategy session.

The meeting, chaired by acting party leader Dr Oburu Odinga, is expected to cover three main issues:

• Preparations for upcoming by-elections,

• Plans for ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations, which will coincide with Raila Odinga’s 80th birthday commemoration, and

• A review of the 10-point agenda agreed upon with UDA earlier this year.

The session comes amid speculation that President Ruto is planning a Cabinet reshuffle, a move that could affect ODM allies currently serving in government.

Political Realignment in Transition

ODM finds itself navigating a delicate balance: honouring Raila Odinga’s legacy while redefining its place in Kenya’s changing political landscape.

Whether Gladys Wanga — one of ODM’s most prominent female leaders — becomes part of that realignment remains to be seen. But for now, the party insists that no decision has been made, and any future alliances will follow due process.