By Habil Onyango.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga will tomorrow (Sunday) preside as chief guest during a special thanksgiving ceremony and interdenominational prayers for Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga on her new appointment as the ODM National Chairperson.
Raila is expected to be accompanied by luminaries, including Governors, top party organs, Senators, and Members of Parliament from across the political divide.
The ceremony will be held at Ligisa Secondary School in Olare, Rangwe Constituency and is set to begin at exactly 8 in the morning.
According to Wanga, this will be a momentous occasion for support and unity within the beloved ODM party.
Wanga was elevated to the position after former National Chairman John Mbadi was appointed by President William Ruto to head the treasury docket.
The County Public Communication Officer, Chief Officer Atieno Otieno, noted that preparations for the event are in top gear.
Atieno said they are expecting hundreds of party supporters from across the country as well as other distinguished guests from various political divides, including National Government Officials.
“Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga will be our chief guest during this celebration of our Governor’s new role as the ODM National Chairperson,” said Atieno.
“We are expecting dignitaries from all over the country and even some from outside to grace the event,” added the Officer.
During the occasion, politics surrounding the planned ODM grassroots elections is expected to feature prominently, as several elected leaders have expressed interest in the Homa Bay branch party Chairperson position, previously held by the Governor.
Former Deputy Governor Hamilton Orata has been appointed as interim Chair for the branch.
Wanga was elected as Homa Bay’s second Governor alongside her deputy, Oyugi Magwanga, succeeding former County Chief Executive Officer Cyprian Awiti and his deputy, Hamilton Orata.
Wanga is not only the first woman to hold the Governor’s seat in the region, but she is also making waves nationally with her impactful leadership and visionary initiatives.
Breaking Barriers and Shattering Glass Ceilings in Kenyan Politics
In a political landscape dominated by male leaders, Governor Wanga stands as a shining example of a woman breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings in top political leadership.
With a strong educational background in Health Management from Kenyatta University, Wanga has dedicated her career to public service, starting as a legislator and rising to become a key player in national politics.
Her extensive parliamentary experience, including service as a commissioner and chair of the Finance Committee, has equipped her with the expertise to tackle complex fiscal issues and drive economic recovery, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under her leadership, Homa Bay County has rapidly transformed, emerging as a frontrunner in development and progress.
Governor Gladys Wanga’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and breaking barriers in the face of adversity.
As a pioneering figure, she continues to inspire women and girls across Kenya to strive for greatness and challenge the status quo.
Wanga’s unwavering commitment to service and progressive leadership is a force to be reckoned with in Kenyan politics, proving that women possess the strength, skills, and determination to lead and excel in any arena.
