Gladys Wanga has come under sharp criticism in the days following Raila Odinga’s death, with many accusing her of taking advantage of the moment for political gain.
Her increased public appearances and strong defense of the government’s broad-based approach have raised questions about her intentions, especially from leaders like Saboti MP Caleb Amisi.
For many, this is not the time for political positioning but for mourning Baba, a man who defined Kenya’s democratic journey for decades. Amisi’s frustration reflects a growing feeling among Kenyans that some ODM leaders are using Raila’s passing as an opportunity to strengthen their influence rather than to honor his legacy.
Amisi’s recent posts on social media question why leaders like Wanga and her allies are so visible and vocal right after Baba’s death.
He wonders why they seem more focused on ODM’s political direction and succession talk instead of taking time to reflect on the man who built their careers.
Raila’s death, he argues, should have united the movement in grief and gratitude, not turned into a contest over who gets to shape the next phase of leadership.
He points out that even during Raila’s final farewell, some leaders seemed more interested in making political statements than in comforting the family or appreciating his lifelong sacrifice.
Wanga’s critics believe she is using the situation to prove her political strength within Luo Nyanza and possibly position herself for a national role ahead of 2027.
Many of those reacting to Amisi’s post accused her of trying to dictate how people should mourn while promoting her own political message.
To them, this behavior shows a lack of respect for the man who gave her and many others the platform they now enjoy. Amisi calls this opportunism a betrayal of Raila’s values and leadership style values built on patience, unity, and the fight for justice rather than self-promotion.
Amisi also highlights the hypocrisy in how some politicians have behaved at Raila’s funeral events, noting that many of those now shouting the loudest in his name were the first to abandon him when times were tough. He says their speeches were filled with empty praise and personal agendas, turning a national moment of mourning into a political show.
For him, this is a reflection of how far the movement has drifted from the spirit Raila stood for.In his view, Kenya needs a reset in its political culture.
Leaders like Wanga should focus on preserving Raila’s legacy instead of using his death to advance their ambitions. Amisi urges ODM members to remember that true leadership is not about grabbing positions but about serving with humility, just as Baba did.
The rush for power, he warns, only deepens divisions and dishonors the memory of the man who united millions through sacrifice.
Raila’s death should be a time for reflection, not competition, and history will remember those who respected that difference.
