The ODM party has debunked the narrative spun that its leader, Raila Odinga, is slowly losing ground in the Luo Nyanza region.

A local newspaper had asserted that Raila was no longer popular in his backyard, what should be a concern to his allies and supporters.

The newspaper based its analysis on the events at the burial of slain blogger Albert Ojwang.

The report prompted a response by the party's national chairperson, who is also Homa Bay governor Gladys Wanga.

Below is her response;

"Our attention has been drawn to the continued misrepresentation of facts and disinformation by the Standard Newspaper which is aimed at promoting the narrative that the ODM Party leader, the Rt. Hon Raila Odinga is losing popularity in his backyard of Nyanza. This is not an isolated incident of misreporting of facts from this particular media house.

This portrayal of the late Albert Ojwang's funeral as a contestation for popularity is unnatural, detestable, and a disservice to the truth, the very maxim upon which the media operates.

The gatekeeper function failed in ensuring accuracy in reporting thus missing out the significance of the unity of purpose that was witnessed at the ceremony.

The funeral was a national event, a cross-generational event that united like-minded Kenyans in pain over a budding life cut short.

It drew attendees from every corner of the country, from the coast, where Albert was educated and worked, to Nairobi, where he tragically lost his life in police custody, to Homa Bay, his ancestral home.

The emotions among mourners were palpable, but the service and interment were conducted peacefully, defying earlier predictions of chaos.

We want to make it clear that The Rt. Hon Raila Odinga is a distinguished Statesman whose contribution to the history of this Nation is undeniable and significant. His consistent fight for justice, sacrifices to lead, reconcile, and bridge divides in our society like no one else are undeniable. ODM is strong and solid, and our recent national grassroots elections reaffirmed our standing as the strongest party in the nation.

The continuous sensationalism and negativity directed at him do not just misrepresent him; they undermine his legacy and the values he stands for. As a party, we remain cognizant of media freedom, and the role of the media to inform the public. We, however, take great exception to salacious and misleading headlines. The time for accountability is now."

Source: TUKO.co.ke