Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) chairperson Gladys Wanga has called on Parliament to urgently allocate funds to compensate families of people who lost their lives or suffered injuries during recent demonstrations.
She said the compensation process should not be delayed, stressing that it forms a key part of the 10-point agenda agreed upon between President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking during a Meet the People tour in Rongo, Migori County on Wednesday, February 18, Wanga maintained that justice for victims must remain a priority.
She said compensation for those affected by protest-related violence was not open for negotiation, noting that the agreement reached under the 10-point agenda must be fully implemented.
According to her, families who lost loved ones and individuals who sustained injuries during demonstrations have waited long enough and deserve immediate action from lawmakers.
Wanga urged Members of Parliament to move with speed and set aside the necessary budget to ensure victims receive compensation. She explained that the issue goes beyond politics, describing it as a matter of fairness and accountability.
The governor argued that addressing the suffering of affected families would help restore public confidence and show that the government is committed to protecting citizens’ rights.
The Homa Bay governor also reaffirmed that the Orange Democratic Movement would continue pushing for reforms outlined in the agreement. She emphasised that the party would not abandon its demands, especially those touching on justice, governance reforms, and economic relief for ordinary citizens.
According to Wanga, the party believes that meaningful reforms are necessary to address long-standing social and economic challenges facing many Kenyans.
In addition to compensation, Wanga highlighted youth unemployment as one of the major concerns captured in the 10-point agenda. She said young people across the country continue to struggle to find opportunities and called for policies that would create jobs and improve livelihoods.
She also stressed the need for increased funding to county governments, arguing that strengthening devolution would allow counties to implement development projects, stimulate local economies, and create employment opportunities at the grassroots level.
Her remarks come months after the High Court declared unconstitutional an 18-member panel formed by President Ruto to oversee verification and compensation of victims affected by police brutality and protest-related violence.
The panel, which had been established in August 2025, was tasked with reviewing claims and facilitating payments to victims.
However, legal challenges halted its operations despite reports that more than 6,000 petitions had already been submitted by affected individuals seeking compensation.
Beyond the issue of compensation, Wanga also spoke about ODM’s political direction ahead of the 2027 General Election. She stated that the party is working to strengthen its internal unity while preparing for possible coalition talks with like-minded political parties.
She confirmed that ODM supports Oburu Odinga as a key party leader and indicated that the party is open to pre-election negotiations, including discussions with the United Democratic Alliance.
Wanga further explained that ODM would only enter into partnerships based on shared values such as inclusivity, equity, and national unity. She said the party would avoid alliances with groups accused of promoting tribal divisions or hate politics.
At the same time, she noted that ODM intends to negotiate for an equal role in any future government arrangement, including pushing for the deputy president position in 2027, as part of its broader strategy to strengthen its political influence while advancing its reform agenda.
Join Tutam Official WhatsApp Channel to stay updated on time
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
