Following Raila Odinga’s death, many Kenyans expected a moment of calm and unity. Instead, politics took center stage, with Gladys Wanga quickly stepping forward.
As the ODM chairperson, she has been unusually active since Raila’s passing, addressing the media, attacking other leaders, and defending the party with a tone that many feel is misplaced during a time of mourning.
Her call for Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga to resign over his remarks about Raila drew mixed reactions, with some agreeing while others questioned her timing.
Instead of allowing the nation and the party to grieve, Wanga seems focused on maintaining political relevance and control within ODM.
Raila was known for his tolerance and ability to bring people together, yet under Wanga’s leadership, ODM appears to be moving in the opposite direction.
Her recent actions have been seen as divisive, targeting figures within the party that Raila always treated as family, including Caleb Amisi, Edwin Sifuna, and Babu Owino.
Reports of internal tension suggest that Wanga is pushing some of these leaders aside, creating the impression that she is tightening her grip on the party rather than protecting Raila’s legacy.
Many Kenyans are asking why there is such urgency to discuss succession and power when the country is still coming to terms with Baba’s death.
Caleb Amisi’s criticism reflects a wider public sentiment. He questioned why Wanga and her allies appear more concerned with party politics than with mourning a man who symbolized unity.
His remarks highlight what many see as a lack of respect for Raila’s memory. Wanga’s constant public appearances and political statements have made her the face of ODM’s current unease, a position that comes with responsibility but also scrutiny.
Her moves are being read not as leadership, but as opportunism.
Raila Odinga built his legacy on inclusivity, forgiveness, and loyalty.
He supported leaders like Wanga and defended them through challenges. Now, with him gone, her approach risks undermining the very ideals that gave her political strength. Condemning Governor Kahiga may have been justified, but doing so while the nation is still mourning looks insensitive and she even went further condemning Rigathi Gachagua not to go to Bondo.
Rather than uniting ODM, her style is fueling division at a moment when Kenyans yearn for stability and dignity.
Wanga’s political energy could serve ODM well in the future, but only if she channels it with humility and respect for the man who made her rise possible.
Raila’s passing should have brought reflection, not rivalry. If Wanga continues on this path, she might secure short-term control, but at the cost of Raila’s dream for a united, people-centered Kenya.
Right now, her leadership raises one pressing question why rush to fill Baba’s space instead of honoring it?
Leave feedback about this