The recent attendance of former Gender Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa at Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga’s thanksgiving ceremony has fueled speculation about her potential political shift back to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party. Her presence at the gathering of ODM leaders and her remarks, particularly her praise of ODM leader Raila Odinga, whom she described as her political mentor, have intensified rumors about her possible return to the party she once championed.
Background of Aisha Jumwa’s Political Journey
Aisha Jumwa’s political career has been marked by significant party affiliations and shifts. Jumwa first rose to prominence in 2013 when she was elected as the Kilifi Woman Representative on an ODM ticket, then going on to represent Malindi as an ODM Member of Parliament in 2017. Her vocal support for ODM and Raila Odinga established her as a prominent political figure within the party and a strong advocate for the region’s development. However, her political allegiance changed in the run-up to the 2022 general elections, when she defected to William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and subsequently contested for the Kilifi gubernatorial seat under the UDA ticket. Despite her efforts, she lost to Gideon Mung’aro of ODM.
Despite the setback, Jumwa’s loyalty to President Ruto was rewarded when he appointed her as the Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage. Jumwa’s tenure in the Cabinet was a testament to her political resilience and influence, though she was later replaced during Ruto’s cabinet reshuffle as he made adjustments to his administration.
The Homa Bay Event and Jumwa’s Renewed Praise for Raila
Jumwa’s presence at Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga’s thanksgiving ceremony has been widely interpreted as a gesture of goodwill toward ODM. During the event, she praised Raila Odinga as her political mentor, recognizing his efforts to foster peace and unity across the country. She credited Odinga’s cooperation with President Ruto as a positive force in reducing political tensions and enhancing national stability. “I want to thank Raila Odinga for prioritizing the country by joining President William Ruto in uniting the country. The country is now experiencing peace because of the cooperation between these two leaders,” Jumwa stated.
Her comments resonated with ODM supporters and leaders present, as she openly acknowledged Odinga’s enduring legacy and principles in guiding the nation’s democratic journey. Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma even hinted at possible political developments, posting a photo of Jumwa at the event and remarking, “Hon. Aisha Jumwa was also present at the ODM function. Something is cooking….”
A Hint at Political Realignments?
While Jumwa did not explicitly declare a shift in allegiance, her statements left room for interpretation. When addressing the crowd, she acknowledged the speculation but refrained from directly affirming or denying her potential return to ODM. She commented, “Mnataka nirudi? Msichana akilelewa na babake hutafuta boma lake na mimi nimelelewa na mheshimiwa Raila kama babangu. Wakati nimekomaa nimetafuta boma langu. Na maisha inasonga mbele,” hinting at the notion that while she had once looked up to Raila as a mentor, her political journey has since led her elsewhere.
However, her words have sparked considerable discussion, particularly within ODM ranks. Political analysts suggest that her public acknowledgment of Raila’s mentorship may signify an attempt to re-establish herself within the opposition party’s framework, especially as she contemplates her political future.
Plans for the 2027 Kilifi Gubernatorial Race
Jumwa used the Homa Bay event as a platform to announce her intention to contest the Kilifi gubernatorial seat in 2027, an ambition that may influence her choice of political party. The 2022 election loss under UDA’s banner could potentially drive her to reconsider ODM as her preferred vehicle for the upcoming race, especially given ODM’s popularity in the region. However, her alignment with President Ruto’s UDA and her Cabinet appointment are strong indicators of her loyalty to Ruto’s administration.
In this political crossroad, Jumwa’s political future hangs on whether she will return to her ODM roots or continue her association with UDA. Political commentators have noted that her decision will likely hinge on the perceived viability of each party within Kilifi and her prospects for securing victory.
The Bigger Picture: Realignments in Kenyan Politics
Jumwa’s situation highlights the fluid nature of political affiliations in Kenya, where figures often align themselves with parties that best support their ambitions at given moments. Her recent appearance at an ODM-dominated function reflects this adaptability, as politicians in Kenya often gravitate toward parties that offer the most advantageous platforms for advancing their careers.
The outcome of Jumwa’s potential realignment could have broader implications for the ODM and UDA parties, as each faction seeks to strengthen its regional presence. For now, Jumwa’s political loyalties remain ambiguous, but her recent comments have clearly set the stage for further speculation.
