ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga has promised Nyanza supporters that the party will hold open primaries in the 2027 general elections to prevent politician defections and maintain its influence.
Gladys Wanga, ODM chairperson and Homa Bay governor, has warned Nyanza politicians against false promises of direct party nominations.
“Do not let anyone tell you that because they are close to me or party leader Dr Oburu Oginga, they will get a direct ODM certificate. Anyone seeking an ODM ticket must seek grassroots endorsement,” Wanga said.
In the 2022 Homa Bay elections, six of eight parliamentary candidates received direct tickets, including Wanga herself. Finance Minister John Mbadi withdrew from the gubernatorial race after late Raila Odinga convinced Oyugi Magwanga to be her deputy. ODM now plans open primaries instead.
“The party will conduct fair selections and give equal opportunity to all aspirants. It is the people who will decide who flies the ODM flag,” Wanga said. She stressed protecting ODM strongholds to boost national influence.
Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma agreed, urging UDA politicians to join ODM as it holds sway in the region.