Azimio leader Raila Odinga has said they have honoured Gladys Wanga with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party chairperson seat because the Orange party values women's leadership.
Speaking on Sunday during Wanga’s Thanksgiving service in Homabay, Raila said women deserve the best positions in the world.
“Some say women "cannot". Those who say that are fools,” he said.
He highlighted the role of women from conception and childbirth to bringing up their children.
Raila condemned the people who do not respect women for the crucial role they play in bringing up a community adding that the country needs women in leadership positions.
“We should give women leadership opportunities in our country. We should respect them so we can prosper as a country,” he said.
Wanga was named ODM national chairperson a seat that was formerly held by Treasury CS John Mbadi.
“On August 9, 2024, the Central Committee made changes in the National Executive Committee, where Gladys Wanga was named the National Chairperson of the ODM Party,” the party decided then.
ODM also settled on governors Simba Arati (Kisii), Abdulswamad (Mombasa) and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi as deputy party leaders.
Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o took over from Raila as party leader in an acting capacity.
Earlier in the week, Wanga welcomed supporters to the ceremony, terming it a momentous occasion for ODM.
During the rally, Raila urged Kenyans and ODM supporters to participate in the oncoming party grassroots polls.
He urged them to keep on supporting the party, saying it is the only party that will put the Nyanza people to power.
“The ODM party stands for justice and truth. It is a democratic party. This is why we have made new appointments because I am vying for a higher position,” he said.
Raila is vying for the African Union Chairmanship seat.
He said it was time the African continent woke up and joined the other continents in becoming great.