ODM and UDA will collaborate to win November by-elections, says Wanga

Wanga expressed confidence that the collaboration between ODM and UDA would ensure success in the polls.
ODM and UDA are conducting zoning exercises and are confident of winning in regions where each enjoys significant support.

ODM will work with other political parties within the Kenya Kwanza coalition to secure all seats in the upcoming by-elections across the country.

National chairperson Gladys Wanga said winning the seats would demonstrate that the majority of Kenyans support the broad-based government.

The Democracy for Citizens Party led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka are also expected to front candidates jointly in the by-elections.

Wanga expressed confidence that the collaboration between ODM and UDA would ensure success in the polls.

A total of 24 by-elections are scheduled for November 27. Some of the vacant positions include the Baringo Senate seat and parliamentary seats in Banissa, Magarini, Kasipul, Malava, Mbeere North, and Ugunja constituencies.

Wanga said ODM and UDA are conducting zoning exercises and are confident of winning in regions where each enjoys significant support.

“ODM and UDA are engaging in negotiations to front candidates in the forthcoming by-elections. The outcome will show who commands political support in the country—whether it’s us or the opposition,” she said.

She spoke on Friday during a fundraiser for the completion of the Ida Odinga Library and Resource Centre at Ogande Girls High School in Homa Bay Town constituency.

Wanga emphasised that the broad-based political alliance is aiming to win 100 per cent of the vacant seats.

The event was attended by Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet, Ida Odinga, National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and other leaders.

Junet criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for allegedly opposing development plans championed by President Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.

The Suna East MP argued that winning the by-elections would show opposition leaders that they lack majority support among Kenyans.

“Kenyans will show them they are beyond tribal politics aimed at causing division. Their divisive politics will come back to haunt them,” he said.

Leaders at the event rallied behind the broad-based government, crediting it with fostering peace and unity in the country.

Junet said that the working relationship between President Ruto and Raila Odinga has opened up development opportunities in regions that were previously marginalised.

Speaker Kingi defended the collaboration, saying both Ruto and Raila share a similar development vision for the country.

“Raila believes in building the country. That’s why, after the election, he chose to work with President Ruto to ensure national stability. He may not have been elected President, but his contribution is significant,” Kingi said.

He also defended the Kenya Kwanza administration, claiming that President Ruto has strengthened the Kenyan currency and prioritised national development.

Farouk said the President is committed to ensuring that no region is sidelined, regardless of political affiliation.

He urged Kenyans to reject leaders promoting tribal divisions for personal gain.

“Let Kenyans not listen to them because such politics are meant to benefit a few individuals. President Ruto has no intention of discriminating against any region in his government,” he said.

The alliance between ODM and UDA ahead of the November 27 by-elections signals a major political realignment aimed at consolidating national power. Gladys Wanga’s confidence reflects growing cooperation within the broad-based government, positioning it to sweep the 24 contested seats.

This partnership, once unthinkable, highlights shifting political dynamics as former rivals now pursue shared goals. The alliance seeks to sideline opposition figures like Rigathi Gachagua and Kalonzo Musyoka by demonstrating broad public support. If successful, the by-elections will legitimize the Ruto-Raila collaboration and further isolate tribal or divisive politics in favor of a unified national agenda.