Kisumu woman representative Ruth Odinga has sent a stern warning to ODM politicians who, for years, have relied on her late brother Raila Odinga’s political influence to secure their seats. Kisumu woman representative Ruth Odinga addresses a past meeting. Speaking in Bondo on Friday, October 24, Ruth told party leaders to brace for a new era of accountability and self-reliance under the stewardship of Siaya senator Oburu Oginga. The event, held under heavy rain, marked one of the most symbolic gatherings in ODM’s heartland since the death of the former prime minister.
Despite the rain, the crowd remained energetic, chanting pro-ODM slogans and vowing to defend the party’s legacy. Party delegates from across Nyanza converged to endorse Oburu as the acting leader of the Orange Democratic Movement as the party restructures following Raila’s passing. For many, the gathering symbolised both mourning and renewal, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the region’s political journey. Ruth’s message was clear, stating that gone are the days when ODM aspirants would depend on Raila’s endorsement to guarantee victory. She said the time had come for leaders to connect directly with voters, earn their support, and prove their worth through tangible service delivery. “I am telling you that under Oburu Odinga, we’ll set the party on the correct path. He’s a very truthful guy. You won’t go to him that, “Oburu Odinga, hold my hand.” He won’t hold your hand. Go and ask the voters for votes,” Ruth told the cheering crowd.
Ruth’s remarks come at a critical time for ODM, a party long defined by Raila’s towering presence and unmatched grassroots command. His death has not only left a vacuum in national politics but also triggered uncertainty within ODM ranks, especially in Nyanza. Oburu Odinga took over the leadership of ODM following his brother’s death. She described her elder brother as a man of integrity and firmness who would not bend the party’s values to accommodate personal interests. The lawmaker stated that Oburu is the right man to steer the party forward, revealing that he was Raila’s most trusted advisor. “He’s a very straightforward person, and if the party goes astray, he’ll straighten it. Nobody should not say he’s not strong. He’s very strong and he’s the one Raila would listen to more than anybody else. Even if I wanted anything from Raila, I would go through Oburu,” she added.
By Didacus Malowa
