2027 Power Play: ODM Demands Deputy President Slot
Homa Bay Governor and ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga speaks during the commemoration of the first anniversary of Raila Odinga’s passing at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega County on October 9, 2026.
ODM leaders are pushing for the deputy president position in the 2027 General Election if the broad-based government arrangement continues, with Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga insisting the party must secure the slot as leaders gathered in Kakamega to commemorate the first anniversary of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s death.
Speaking during the ceremony at Bukhungu Stadium on Friday, Wanga challenged former President Uhuru Kenyatta over his influence on opposition politics, questioning how he could help opposition leaders capture the presidency after failing to secure the seat for Raila in the 2022 General Election despite being in government.
The commemoration, organised by the Kakamega County Government, brought together ODM leaders and supporters to honour Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s democratic development, while leaders also addressed the party’s political direction ahead of the 2027 polls.
Wanga reaffirmed ODM’s commitment to the political ideals Raila championed, including national unity, democracy and equal opportunities for all Kenyans. She also ruled out being on the same political side as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed called on opposition politicians interested in joining ODM to approach the party openly and declare their intentions, urging them to avoid political manoeuvres conducted behind the scenes.
Junet’s remarks signalled ODM’s willingness to receive new members as political realignments gather pace ahead of the next election.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa cautioned opposition leaders against creating confusion around members of the Odinga family, saying the family had made its position clear in supporting the broad-based government.
Barasa urged politicians to respect the family’s position and avoid using its name to fuel divisions, saying ODM needed unity as it continued to uphold Raila’s legacy.
The gathering also provided an opportunity for leaders and supporters to reflect on Raila’s role in Kenya’s democratic struggle and his advocacy for constitutionalism, social justice and national unity.
The event formed part of activities marking one year since Raila’s death in October 2025, with the anniversary commemorations focusing on his contribution to the country’s political development and the values he championed.
With the 2027 General Election approaching, ODM continues to face key decisions over its relationship with the broad-based government, possible alliances with opposition figures and the role it expects to play in any future power-sharing arrangement.
