Homa Bay Governor and ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga is facing growing criticism over her recent political conduct, with many accusing her of abandoning the spirit of unity and respect that the late Raila Odinga stood for.
What was once viewed as her promising leadership in Homa Bay and the ODM party has now been clouded by constant political fights and public outbursts that appear to do little for the people she represents.
This week, Wanga took aim at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, accusing them of mocking Raila Odinga’s death. She claimed Kahiga was speaking for Gachagua, saying, “Kahiga is the spokesperson of Rigathi Gachagua.”
Wanga further accused the Gachagua of having ridiculed Raila’s illness and failing to mourn him. She went on to announce that ODM would not associate with any of Gachagua’s allies, declaring, “The friend of your enemy is your enemy.”
While such remarks may please sections of her supporters, they have also sparked concern over her leadership direction. Critics argue that Wanga is turning every national issue into a tribal confrontation instead of focusing on the development needs of her county.
Many residents of Homa Bay expected her to lead in building better roads, boosting health services, supporting traders and creating jobs for young people. Instead, her political tone has become increasingly combative, reducing important issues to endless rivalries that bring little progress.
Saboti MP Caleb Hamisi is among those who have openly questioned Wanga’s approach. In a passionate statement, he expressed disappointment in the manner ODM leaders, especially Wanga and her allies, have conducted themselves following Raila’s death.
Homabay county governor Gladys Wanga. Photo Courtesy/Gladys Wanga (Facebook)
“Why is Wanga and company so active politically after Baba’s death? What happened to the period of mourning? Why are they all over the media spewing tribal animosity between a democratic community against other communities?” he asked.
Hamisi went further, questioning the intentions behind Wanga’s focus on political battles instead of reflecting on Raila’s legacy.
“Since Baba died, they are more on broad-based politics than the life of Raila. Even if Baba left you in broad-based, why are you defending it more than the owners and UDA MPs?” he continued, expressing disbelief at how casually some leaders have treated the passing of such a key national figure.
He also wondered why some leaders appear in a rush to push out voices like himself, Sifuna and Babu Owino from ODM people he says Raila valued and supported.
“Why are you so fixed on ODM’s future and its presidential candidate more than mourning the founder Raila Odinga? Why talk about Baba’s succession so happily in his last days of respect?” Hamisi added.
His questions reflect growing unease within ODM and among Kenyans who feel the current leadership is more focused on political dominance than reflection or renewal.
Many believe the tone of Wanga’s leadership is deepening divisions instead of bringing healing after Raila’s passing.
For the people of Homa Bay, the message is simple. They did not elect Gladys Wanga to fight endless political wars or to fan tension between communities. They elected her to work, to lead and to improve their livelihoods. The fishermen of Lake Victoria, the traders of Kendu Bay and the unemployed youth across the county deserve more than rhetoric.
It is time for Governor Wanga to step back from political showdowns and focus on her responsibilities at home. Leadership is not proven through loud statements or political loyalty tests but through results that improve lives.
The late Raila Odinga believed in unity, dignity and service values that Wanga must now reflect on if she is to honour his legacy and regain the trust of those who once believed in her leadership.
