Speaking at Tononoka Grounds in Mombasa during a high-profile ODM mobilisation rally, Wanga addressed growing speculation that the party is gradually losing its grip on key urban and peri-urban regions, particularly among youthful voters.
Her remarks came after Sifuna’s Kitengela appearance attracted not just ODM supporters but also members affiliated with the Democratic Congress Party (DCP), Jubilee, and
Wiper—an unusual convergence that has sparked debate about the future of party loyalty in Kenyan politics.
“Unatuambia mkutano ni ya ODM na watu wako pale ni DCP, watu wako pale ni Jubilee, watu wako pale ni Wiper,” Wanga said, questioning the authenticity of rallies that are branded as ODM events yet dominated by supporters from rival parties.
Her statement was widely interpreted as a thinly veiled critique of Sifuna’s emerging political strategy, which appears to prioritise broad-based popular appeal over strict party identity.
Wanga emphasised that while ODM remains open to collaboration and inclusivity, political clarity is essential.
According to her, parties must retain ideological coherence and organisational discipline if they are to remain relevant in a highly competitive political environment.
Sifuna, who is ex ODM’s Secretary General, has increasingly positioned himself as a populist voice capable of mobilising young voters disillusioned with traditional party structures.
His reception in Kitengela is evidence of his growing national stature and his ability to tap into Gen Z political energy—an asset that ODM desperately needs ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, critics within ODM claims that Sifuna’s popularity risks morphing into a parallel power centre that could undermine party leadership.
Some insiders fear that his alliances with non-ODM actors, including figures from Jubilee and Wiper, may dilute the party’s ideological base and create internal contradictions.
