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ODM Could Front Gladys Wanga as Ruto’s Deputy President, Says Abdulswamad

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has suggested that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) could propose Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga as President William Ruto’s running mate in the 2027 general election.

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ODM Could Front Gladys Wanga as Ruto’s Deputy President, Says Abdulswamad

Speaking during an interview on NTV, the ODM deputy party leader said Wanga would be an ideal candidate if the two parties agreed to select a deputy president from ODM ranks.

“Would I propose her to be the DP? First of all, I would have a sit-down with her and ask her if she would be interested in being the Deputy President,” Abdulswamad said. “There are many people who can be able to be in that position, but if she said yes, then that has to go to the Central Management Committee for deliberation.”

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The governor argued that such a move could solidify unity between ODM and the Kenya Kwanza government, though he acknowledged that Wanga has not publicly expressed interest in the position.

Party to Remain in Government

Abdulswamad reiterated his earlier stance that ODM would either be in government or form the government come 2027, ruling out any possibility of the party returning to opposition.

“The party was not going to be in the opposition come 2027,” he stated firmly.

Internal Party Differences

However, the governor’s remarks appear to contradict the position held by ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, who maintains that the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga wanted the party to field its own presidential candidate in 2027.

Clarifying ODM’s Position

Abdulswamad was quick to clarify the nature of ODM’s relationship with the ruling administration, emphasizing that the party is not in a coalition with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

“The ODM party is not in a coalition with UDA. The party is only in the broad-based government,” he explained, adding that ODM remains united despite differing opinions within its leadership.

The proposal comes at a time when ODM continues to navigate its role in the broad-based government while maintaining its distinct party identity and preparing for the next electoral cycle.