Ruth Odinga has likened the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to a “highly sought-after bride,” urging members to reconcile internal differences and present a united front ahead of future elections.
Speaking in an interview with KTN on Wednesday, 18th February 2026, the Kisumu Woman Representative expressed confidence in ODM’s political strength despite ongoing internal divisions.
“ODM is a very strong party. This is the woman everybody wants to marry,” Ruth Odinga said, using a metaphor to underscore the party’s appeal and influence in Kenya’s political landscape.
The sister of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga emphasized the need for reconciliation between rival factions within the party, noting that unity would strengthen ODM’s bargaining power in national politics.
“If we can have our act together, and these two factions can come back together, and we come out strong, we are going to be able to say, ‘Here we are, this is our card, and this is what we want,’” she said.
Ruth Odinga also dismissed suggestions that ODM should shy away from fielding a presidential candidate in future elections, arguing that the party remains a formidable political force capable of producing national leadership.
“Even if somebody from ODM is willing to become president, why would we say that ODM does not want to field a president?” she posed.
Addressing the controversy surrounding ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, she defended his right to express his views, stressing that due process and fairness must be upheld within the party.
“Edwin Sifuna has been speaking his mind and has his right, and if there was any issue about discipline, he should have also been given the right to reply. Even in Shakahola, the accused people were also given a chance to speak,” she noted.
Her remarks come at a time when ODM is grappling with public internal disagreements, raising questions about cohesion within one of Kenya’s most influential political parties.
