Ruth Odinga Fires Warning to ODM Members Amid Jostling to Replace Raila
Speaking emotionally at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Siaya County, Ruth cautioned against emerging factions attempting to wrestle control of ODM after Raila’s passing.
“What you said about our party must remain,” Ruth recalled her late brother’s words. “You told me the day before you passed away that we must be united. ODM must be united, and if it is not strong, we will not achieve what we stand for.”
Her tone shifted sharply as she addressed internal wrangles.
“ODM must unite,” she insisted. “We cannot have one ODM here and another one led by someone who thinks they own the party. ODM belongs to all of us.”
Ruth’s words cut deep, directed at leaders rumored to be plotting separate paths after Raila’s death. “Some of those who want to take over the party don’t know how we started it,” she said, her voice heavy with emotion.
Cracks Within ODM Emerge
Even before Raila’s passing, ODM had begun to show signs of strain. The party’s March 2025 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kenya Kwanza government sparked discontent among long-time loyalists.
Several members viewed Raila’s decision to cooperate with President William Ruto as a betrayal of opposition ideals. Consequently, internal divisions deepened, creating rival camps — one loyal to Raila’s legacy and another pushing for fresh leadership.
However, Ruth maintained that Raila’s vision of a strong, united ODM must outlive him. “We will go into any negotiation table with one united ODM,” she declared, receiving applause from mourners gathered under the scorching Siaya sun.
Winnie Odinga’s Subtle Signal
“I am ready to return home and work with President William Ruto’s government,” Winnie reportedly said, describing it as a continuation of her father’s legacy.
Her statement added a new twist to the unfolding political drama. Analysts now believe ODM could experience a major realignment ahead of the 2027 General Election, especially if President Ruto’s recent gestures toward the Odinga family continue.
Winnie, currently serving as a Member of Parliament at the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), remains one of the most visible faces of Raila’s political lineage.
Unity or Division? The Battle for ODM’s Soul
As ODM grapples with leadership succession, Ruth Odinga’s rallying cry for unity could determine the party’s survival. Many see her as a stabilizing force, while others believe she is laying ground for the next phase of Raila’s political dream.
For now, ODM stands at a crossroads — between loyalty and ambition, unity and division, legacy and power.
“ODM must stay united,” Ruth emphasized once more. “That was Baba’s last wish.”
Her words echoed across the silent crowd, a reminder that Raila’s legacy is not buried — it lives on through those determined to protect it.
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Ruth Odinga Fires Warning to ODM Members Amid Jostling to Replace Raila
