Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has urged ODM members to avoid endorsing President Ruto’s two-term campaign. She said ODM’s focus should be on rebuilding and preparing for the 2027 elections.
Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has cautioned members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) against openly supporting President William Ruto’s “Tutam” (two-term) slogan, saying it could weaken the party’s bargaining power in the next elections.
Speaking during an interview on a local radio station, Ruth said ODM’s participation in the broad-based government is meant to promote national unity, not to lose its political identity.
“You cannot, as a member of the ODM Party in the broad-based government, start shouting ‘Tutam’. What would be your negotiating edge post-2027 polls?” she questioned.
Ruth, who is the sister of the late Raila Odinga, said ODM’s current role should be focused on strengthening its internal structures and preparing credible candidates for the 2027 elections.
“Our focus right now should be on strengthening the party and getting the right candidates who will deliver victory. Shouting ‘Tutam’ right now will not add any value to the party,” she stated.
She added that this period offers ODM a chance to rebuild trust among grassroots supporters and ensure the selection of leaders based on popularity and service rather than connections or wealth.
The Kisumu legislator also praised the new ODM leadership under Dr Oburu Oginga, saying she hopes it will restore firmness and discipline in party operations.
“This is the time to strengthen ODM. We must have strong candidates who are popular on the ground. As a politician, I can always tell who is popular,” she said.
Ruth further criticised some individuals who, in the past, used Raila Odinga’s humility to advance personal ambitions at the expense of party unity.
Ruth Odinga clarified that she would continue supporting the government whenever it delivers on its promises but would not hesitate to call it out when it goes off track.
“I can’t be a certified member of the praise and worship team even when it’s clear that the government is on the wrong trajectory,” she asserted.
Her remarks come amid growing division within ODM, with some members in the broad-based government publicly backing President Ruto for a second term.
Ruth’s sentiments highlight an internal push within ODM to maintain strategic neutrality and safeguard the party’s influence heading into the 2027 General Elections.
According to her, ODM must keep its options open for meaningful negotiations while remaining true to its founding principles and loyal supporters.
