In a resounding show of support, women leaders in Homa Bay County are advocating for Governor Gladys Wanga to be appointed as the next deputy party leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). This move is aimed at promoting gender equality within the party and across the broader political landscape in Kenya.
The call for Governor Wanga’s elevation comes in the wake of the departure of former deputy party leaders Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, who have transitioned into government roles as cabinet secretaries. The vacancies left by Joho and Oparanya have created an opportunity for ODM to make strides toward achieving the two-thirds gender rule, a constitutional mandate designed to ensure greater female representation in governance.
Peres Ogutu, Chairperson of the ODM Women League in Homa Bay County, along with Rangwe Constituency chairperson Caroline Owidhi and a cohort of ODM MCAs led by Joan Ogada, have publicly urged the party leadership to consider Wanga for the deputy leader position. Their appeal to ODM leader Raila Odinga underscores the widespread belief that Wanga possesses the necessary leadership qualities and experience to excel in this role.
Addressing journalists in Homa Bay Town, Ogutu highlighted Wanga’s impressive track record, particularly during her tenure as the ODM chairperson in Homa Bay County. Ogutu pointed out that Wanga’s leadership has been marked by integrity, dedication, and effective governance, which have earned her the respect and trust of both party members and constituents.
“Governor Wanga has demonstrated exemplary leadership capabilities,” Ogutu stated. “Her tenure as the ODM chairperson in Homa Bay has been characterized by inclusivity and strategic vision. We believe she is well-equipped to take on the role of deputy party leader and further the cause of gender equality within ODM and beyond.”
Joan Ogada echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that Wanga’s appointment would be a significant step toward achieving the two-thirds gender rule. Ogada argued that having Wanga in a top leadership position within ODM would not only set a powerful precedent but also inspire more women to pursue leadership roles within the party and other elective positions in Kenya.
“The ascension of Governor Wanga to the deputy party leader position would be a monumental stride toward gender parity,” Ogada remarked. “It would signal ODM’s commitment to empowering women and ensuring their voices are heard at the highest levels of decision-making. This is crucial for achieving the two-thirds gender rule and fostering a more inclusive political environment.”
The push for Wanga’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for ODM, as the party seeks to fill the leadership void left by Joho and Oparanya. The women leaders have urged the party to support Wanga’s candidacy regardless of the method chosen to fill the vacant positions, be it through elections or appointments.
Caroline Owidhi, chairperson of Rangwe Constituency, underscored the importance of this moment for ODM and the broader political context in Kenya. “This is an opportunity for ODM to lead by example and demonstrate its commitment to gender equality,” Owidhi said. “By supporting Governor Wanga, ODM can pave the way for more women to participate in leadership roles and contribute to the nation’s development.”
As the ODM leadership deliberates on the next steps, the strong backing for Governor Gladys Wanga serves as a testament to her leadership capabilities and the growing recognition of the need for gender-balanced representation in Kenyan politics. The women leaders of Homa Bay County have made it clear that they see Wanga as a beacon of progress and an embodiment of the values necessary to drive ODM forward.
