ODM Party Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has reaffirmed the party’s political strength in Busia County, dismissing claims that ODM has weakened following the death of its former leader, Raila Odinga.

Speaking during the Raila Odinga Memorial Tournament, dubbed the Imwatok Super Cup, in Teso South, Wanga expressed confidence that ODM would retain all elective seats in Busia County in the 2027 General Election.

Wanga commended Nairobi County Assembly Majority Leader Jateso Imwatok for organising the tournament in honour of Raila, saying the initiative was instrumental in promoting youth engagement through sports while preserving the legacy of the late opposition chief.

She urged residents to remain united behind ODM, insisting that the party remained firmly rooted in the region despite political changes following Raila’s death.

The ODM chairperson also defended the party’s continued participation in the broad-based government under President William Ruto, saying the partnership was aimed at promoting equitable development and ensuring that Kenyans across the country benefited from government programmes.

Wanga was accompanied by a delegation of ODM leaders, including Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Mohamed, former Nairobi County Assembly Speaker Beatrice Elachi and former Busia Governor Sospeter Ojaamong.

The ODM brigade was hosted by Busia Governor Paul Otuoma as the party pitched tent in Funyula and Teso South constituencies during the Mwezi wa Baba celebrations, which seek to honour Raila Odinga’s legacy.

The visit comes as ODM continues to consolidate its grassroots support and position itself ahead of the 2027 General Election, with its leadership seeking to maintain party unity and retain its political influence in former Raila strongholds.