Homa Bay Governor and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) National Chairperson Gladys Wanga has opened up about the significant role played by the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in shaping Kenya’s political landscape, describing him as a mentor, unifying figure and champion of democratic reforms.
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In remarks marking one year since Raila’s death, Wanga reflected on the personal and political relationship she shared with the veteran politician, revealing how his guidance and belief in her leadership helped shape her political journey.
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According to Wanga, Raila was more than a political leader to her. He was a father figure who provided mentorship, created opportunities for emerging leaders and encouraged them to pursue leadership positions.
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She recalled that her political journey gained momentum after Raila embraced her following her election as Homa Bay Woman Representative, giving her the opportunity to learn from his experience and leadership.
Wanga said much of what she had achieved in politics was connected to the confidence Raila placed in her and the opportunities he provided along the way.
“Whatever I have achieved in politics, I owe in large measure to his belief in me. He gave me a platform, held my hand, and opened doors that helped shape my political journey,” she said.
Her tribute highlighted the personal influence Raila had on leaders within ODM, many of whom rose through the political ranks under his mentorship.
Wanga Explains Raila’s Contribution to Kenya
Beyond her personal experience, Wanga described Raila as a key figure in Kenya’s struggle for democracy, human rights, social justice and an expanded democratic space.
She credited him with championing reforms that changed the country’s governance system, particularly the push for a new constitutional order that culminated in the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.
Wanga also highlighted Raila’s commitment to devolution, arguing that his support for decentralised governance was central to ensuring that communities across the country could participate more directly in development and decision-making.
She further praised his efforts to promote the inclusion of women and marginalised groups in leadership, saying his political approach helped create opportunities for a broader range of Kenyans.
Raila, who served as Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, remained one of the country’s most influential political figures for decades, having played a prominent role in opposition politics and campaigns for democratic reforms.
Message to ODM Leaders
Wanga also used the anniversary to challenge ODM leaders to protect the party’s unity and preserve the principles Raila championed during his political career.
She said the party had a responsibility to move beyond celebrating his legacy through speeches and instead implement the vision he had consistently advocated for Kenya.
According to Wanga, Raila wanted ODM to remain a national political movement capable of bringing together communities from different backgrounds while championing democracy, justice, equity and inclusion.
She urged party leaders to put the broader interests of the movement above personal ambitions as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election.
“Our duty is not merely to preserve his legacy in words, but to advance the vision for which he dedicated his life,” Wanga said.
Her remarks come amid discussions within ODM over the party’s future direction following Raila’s death and disagreements over its political alliances.
For Wanga, preserving Raila’s legacy means maintaining the ideals he promoted while ensuring the party remains relevant to the country’s changing political environment.
The governor’s tribute therefore presented Raila not only as a former Prime Minister but also as a mentor whose influence extended to the next generation of political leaders.
As ODM navigates the post-Raila era, Wanga’s message places renewed emphasis on unity, democratic reforms and the responsibility of party leaders to carry forward the vision he left behind.
