Former Migori Woman Representative Dr Pamela Odhiambo has cautioned leaders who have previously sought elective positions under the slogan of “helping Baba” that the political landscape has shifted, and that narrative may no longer resonate with voters.
Dr Pamela, who vied for the Migori gubernatorial seat in the last general election on an ODM ticket, has re-emerged on the political scene and is now pursuing the same seat under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Her move signals a firm alignment with President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking at her home after attending a church service and participating in a fundraiser in Wasimbete Ward, Suna West, Migori County, Dr Pamela warned that it will not be easy for what she termed as “joyriders” in the upcoming political cycle.
“There will be no room for the politics of helping Baba this time. If you must help him, then join him,” she said.
Dr Pamela argued that the long-standing justification by some aspirants that they were seeking office to strengthen Raila’s political bargaining power had grown stale, urging leaders to instead focus on tangible development agendas.
Dr Pamela previously contested the Migori gubernatorial seat under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket but later dropped after ODM handed a direct nomination to Governor Ochilo Ayacko in the last elections.
She said her decision to join UDA was informed by what she described as the party’s commitment to internal democracy, adding that the party’s name itself reflects its core values.
“I believe in democracy, and UDA stands for that,” she said.
During her address, Dr Pamela also called on Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo to intervene and help settle recurring cases of violence in Migori County, saying insecurity undermines development and investor confidence.
She urged Migori residents to rally behind President Ruto’s development agenda, expressing her support for the Kenya Kwanza administration and its policies.
In addition, she emphasized the need to strengthen women empowerment initiatives and called for enhanced support for widows in Suna West, noting that many remain economically vulnerable and socially marginalized.