Homa Bay Governor Wanga Calls for Equal Power-Sharing in Potential ODM-UDA Talks Ahead of 2027

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga suggested that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) should push for the Deputy President position for former Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho in any potential political arrangement with President William Ruto's camp ahead of the 2027 General Election, AllAfrica reported.

Wanga made the remarks during an ODM youth gathering in Malindi on Sunday. She said any negotiations between ODM and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) must be founded on equality and mutual respect.

Wanga argued that ODM should not enter talks from a weak position, insisting that power-sharing should reflect a clear balance between the two sides. 'If we enter talks, we go as equals. Everything must be on the table -- it has to be fifty-fifty.

If they take the presidency, ODM should take the Deputy President position,' she said. She added that ODM must be firm in negotiations and secure additional key government roles, including Cabinet positions, if a political deal is reached. 'We cannot go in quietly as if we are begging.

We must negotiate strongly and clearly,' Wanga stated. Wanga raised the possibility of Ali Hassan Joho being considered for the Deputy President role, suggesting that ODM should be strategic when allocating leadership positions. She also said ODM would not work with leaders accused of involvement in land grabbing.

'We cannot sit with people we know have a history of grabbing land,' Wanga said. AllAfrica reported that her comments come amid ongoing discussions between ODM and UDA. President Ruto and ODM acting party leader Oburu Odinga met at State House, Nairobi.

They agreed to form a Broad-Based Management Committee to coordinate government priorities across the executive and legislature. The discussions between ODM and UDA follow complaints from ODM over statements by some UDA leaders.