Political debate has intensified following remarks by public policy and governance expert Rachael Omollo, who said there is nothing preventing Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga from running for the Deputy President position should an opportunity arise.
Speaking amid the evolving political realignments, Omollo said Wanga’s candidature would mark a historic milestone for the country, arguing that Kenya is ripe for a female Deputy President.
She noted that such a move would help address long-standing gender parity challenges by placing women’s issues at the centre of national leadership and decision-making.
Omollo’s comments come at a time when the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Wanga’s party, has agreed to work with President William Ruto in a broad-based political arrangement, despite Professor Kithure Kindiki currently serving as Ruto’s deputy.
The cooperation between ODM and the Kenya Kwanza administration has reshaped the political landscape, fuelling speculation about future power-sharing and succession dynamics.
According to Omollo, Wanga’s growing national profile, administrative experience as a county boss, and strong standing within ODM position her as a viable national figure.
She added that the Constitution does not bar a woman from holding the office of Deputy President, making the discussion purely political rather than legal.
The push for a female Deputy President has been a recurring theme in Kenya’s gender discourse, with advocates arguing that women remain underrepresented at the highest levels of executive power despite constitutional guarantees on equality and inclusion.
Kenya has never had a female Deputy President since independence.
While ODM has not officially indicated plans to front Wanga for the position, the party’s cooperation with President Ruto has opened new conversations about inclusivity, representation and the future of coalition politics.
For now, Omollo’s remarks have added momentum to the debate, placing gender parity and women’s leadership firmly back on the national agenda.
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