Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has called for political tolerance and peaceful coexistence as political parties prepare for increased campaign activities in the county ahead of the planned August 16 Linda Mwananchi rally.
Speaking at Anding’o Primary School in Rachuonyo East Sub-County, Wanga welcomed all political formations intending to campaign in the region, emphasizing that every party has a constitutional right to traverse the country and present its agenda to voters freely.
She urged residents to uphold peace and respect democratic freedoms, warning against political intolerance and violence.
“Anyone is free to tour any part of the country and campaign for their agenda. Let us not fight or shed blood because of politics. We are one family and one nation,” she said.
The Governor specifically appealed to young people to remain calm and avoid being drawn into politically instigated conflicts, noting that competition among leaders should not translate into unrest at the community level.
While reaffirming her support for political pluralism, Wanga maintained that Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) supporters in the county remain firmly loyal to the party and its leadership.
She said ODM has resolved to strengthen its grassroots structures, expand its membership and continue advancing its development agenda while remaining part of the broad-based government under President William Ruto.
According to Wanga, the party’s decision to support the broad-based arrangement is informed by what she described as equitable distribution of development projects across the country.
She cited counties such as Tana River, Meru, Kajiado, Busia and Homa Bay among those benefiting from national government programmes, which she said reflect a commitment to inclusive growth.
At the same time, the Governor dismissed any possibility of ODM joining a political alliance involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, citing fundamental differences in political ideology.
Wanga accused Gachagua of advancing exclusionary politics that fail to recognise the interests of smaller communities.
She reiterated that ODM stands for inclusion, national unity and equal treatment of all Kenyans, regardless of their background.
Her remarks come amid heightened political activity across the country as leaders intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the next general election.
By Sitna Omar
