NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 19 – Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has defended President William Ruto and the broad-based government, accusing critics of misleading Kenyans and relying on propaganda instead of offering solutions to the country’s challenges.
Speaking in Nandi during the burial ceremony of the wife of veteran politician Henry Kosgey, Wanga praised President Ruto’s recent appearance on the global stage, saying Kenya and Africa should be proud of his leadership.
The governor said Ruto had distinguished himself among African leaders by representing the continent’s interests at an international forum, describing the moment as a source of national pride.
“Many leaders in Africa are older than you, many have been in power longer than you, and many have more experience than you, but you were the one sitting at that table representing the issues of the entire African continent. We are proud of you,” Wanga said.
The ODM chairperson also took aim at critics of the government, particularly over claims surrounding the Finance Bill 2026, saying some leaders had failed to back up their allegations when challenged in Parliament.
“I thank our Members of Parliament because when someone stood up and said there was a clause in the Finance Bill hurting people, they were asked to show that clause. Some could not find it and eventually had to withdraw and apologise,” she said.
Wanga argued that Kenya’s politics must move away from what she described as propaganda, hatred and misinformation.
“A country cannot be run on propaganda, lies, hatred, jealousy and insults. We must be truthful with Kenyans,” she stated.
The governor challenged government opponents to present alternative policies instead of merely criticising existing programmes.
“If we say affordable housing is good and you say it is bad, show us the alternative. If we say universal healthcare is bad, show us your plan. Show Kenyans the path you would take to lead this country,” she said.
According to Wanga, leaders seeking higher office should focus on solutions rather than division and tribal politics.
“This approach of propaganda, insults, lies, hatred and dividing Kenyans along tribal lines will not work. Those are things of the past and they will not move this country forward,” she added.
The ODM Chairperson at the same time reaffirmed the party’s commitment to working with President Ruto under the broad-based government arrangement.
She recalled the political relationship between ODM supporters in the Rift Valley and former Prime Minister the late Raila Odinga, saying the time had now come for the region and ODM supporters to work together with Ruto.
“When 2007 came, you walked with Baba. The opportunity has now come for us to walk with you. We will walk together, and we will reach the future together while holding hands in the broad-based government,” Wanga declared.
