Kisumu County Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has moved to dispel mounting speculation over her stance on the political direction of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), insisting that her remarks were taken out of context and that her loyalty to the party’s unity remains unwavering.
In a Facebook post on Sunday, Ruth firmly dismissed claims that she is opposed to alliances between ODM and other political parties. She emphasized that her position has consistently been in favour of strengthening the party before engaging in any coalition-building exercises.
“I am not against a coalition between ODM and other parties,” she wrote. “What I keep insisting is that we must have one strong ODM. We’ve been in the trenches long enough to know what unity can achieve.”
Her clarification followed a condolence visit by Ndhiwa MP Martin Owino and his delegation to Kango ka Jaramogi, where she reiterated her commitment to ODM’s ideals and underscored the centrality of internal cohesion in the party’s survival.
The statement comes amid heightened speculation over what ODM’s next political move will be following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Her earlier remarks hinting that the party would contest forthcoming mini-polls independently had sparked debate, prompting a need for clarity.
Ruth confirmed that ODM would field candidates in Magarini, Malava, and other by-election zones without entering into temporary arrangements with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). She stressed that independence in the short term does not rule out strategic alliances in the future.
Speaking during an ODM meeting in Mombasa, Ruth recalled Raila Odinga’s final instructions to members—an unwavering emphasis on unity. “Baba kept reminding me that the party must remain strong. That is the only way to protect the legacy he built,” she said.
She maintained that any future coalition decisions would be made collectively and strategically, with the party’s interest at the forefront. “When we reach 2027, we can choose to go alone or align with others, including UDA, but only from a position of strength,” she stated.
Drawing from history, Ruth reminded party supporters of ODM’s enduring resilience through political turbulence. “In 2007, our victory was taken, but we still emerged powerful enough to influence national leadership. You can’t face a political battle without a strong weapon — and for us, that weapon is a united ODM.”
Her remarks come at a time when ODM members and supporters are closely tracking how the party will navigate Kenya’s shifting political terrain in the post-Raila era. The conversation around strategy, unity, and alliances remains at the centre of national discourse, with Ruth Odinga’s statement offering a clearer sense of direction amid uncertainty.
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