Ruth Odinga, Kisumu Woman Representative and sister to ODM leader Raila Odinga, has cautioned members of her party against prematurely endorsing President William Ruto’s re-election bid. She stated that such declarations are misplaced at this stage, insisting that ODM must abide by its internal decision-making processes.
Speaking during the Sigand Nyinam gathering in Migori on September 25, Ruth argued that ODM leaders should not commit the party to any alliance with Ruto before the official party organs decide its path. “As things stand, we cannot join the two-term chorus. That will be at the behest of our Party Leader, the Right Honourable Raila Odinga, come 2027,” she told the audience.
Ruth’s statement comes against a backdrop of growing speculation that ODM may throw its support behind Ruto’s re-election. Some party members have already begun signaling their backing. But the party’s leader, Raila Odinga, has himself pushed back on those signals, asserting that ODM has not bound itself to any deal with Ruto. He emphasized that the question of 2027 candidacy should be settled through the party’s official structures, not by individuals speaking on behalf of ODM.
Political analysts view these developments as part of ODM’s effort to maintain flexibility and cohesion amid shifting alliances. For now, Ruth’s remarks underscore a clear message: until Raila speaks, ODM won’t be swept into supporting Ruto.
